Commercial Inspections

Commercial inspections are broader in scope and more complex due to the varied nature of commercial properties—offices, warehouses, restaurants, multi-family buildings, and more. Unlike residential inspections that focus on habitability, commercial inspections evaluate structural integrity, mechanical systems, fire safety, ADA compliance, roofing, parking areas, and the functionality of high-use systems like HVAC or elevators. Sonic Home Inspections offers customized evaluations based on property type and use, ensuring investors and building owners get an accurate picture of the building’s condition, lifecycle costs, and regulatory compliance before making financial commitments.

Sonic Home Inspections inspects a wide variety of commercial properties including office buildings, strip malls, retail storefronts, warehouses, industrial sites, multi-family residential units (5+ units), restaurants, and mixed-use properties. Each type presents different inspection needs. For instance, retail may require tenant-specific evaluations, while industrial properties need heavy system assessments. We tailor every inspection to the property’s usage, layout, and construction type—ensuring comprehensive, practical reporting for investors, owners, or tenants.

A standard commercial inspection from Sonic Home Inspections includes evaluation of the property’s structure, roofing, electrical, HVAC, plumbing, foundation, exterior, interior components, life safety systems, and parking lots. We also consider code compliance, maintenance practices, and future repair/replacement forecasts. Optional services like radon testing, mold inspections, thermal imaging, and ADA assessments can be added. You’ll receive a narrative-style report with photos, system summaries, risk highlights, and actionable recommendations tailored to the business use and projected longevity of the asset.

It depends on the size, complexity, and systems of the property. A small retail building may take 3–4 hours, while a multi-unit apartment complex or warehouse could require a full day or more, often with a team of specialists. Sonic Home Inspections schedules appropriately and can deploy multiple licensed inspectors for larger sites. We prioritize efficiency without sacrificing thoroughness, and our reports are typically delivered within 24–72 hours after the inspection, depending on project scope.

Absolutely. Sonic Home Inspections regularly works with property managers, building owners, and investors in the multi-tenant and leasing space. We evaluate both common areas and individual tenant spaces as needed. We also offer Pre-Lease Inspections that help tenants understand their repair obligations before signing, and Exit Inspections at the end of leases to assess wear-and-tear and responsibilities. Our reports assist in negotiating terms, lease agreements, and identifying capital improvement needs.

Not all home inspectors are trained for commercial work. Commercial inspections require knowledge of industrial systems, mechanical engineering, code compliance, and long-term maintenance forecasting. At Sonic Home Inspections, we bring a combination of state licensing, industry certifications (InterNACHI Commercial Property Inspector), and decades of field experience. Our inspectors also collaborate with subject-matter specialists (e.g., structural engineers, HVAC technicians, electricians) when needed to ensure every component is accurately evaluated.

Commercial real estate is a high-stakes investment. Undiscovered issues—like failing HVAC systems, roof damage, water intrusion, or electrical hazards—can cost tens of thousands post-purchase or lease. A thorough inspection gives you negotiation leverage, reduces liability, and uncovers hidden costs that affect your ROI. Sonic Home Inspections provides transparency that helps clients decide whether to proceed, renegotiate, or budget accordingly. In leasing scenarios, our inspections can also help delineate tenant and landlord responsibilities.

While a full code compliance audit requires a licensed code official or specialist, Sonic Home Inspections evaluates general compliance with major safety and accessibility standards—such as ADA guidelines, basic fire/life safety, and apparent zoning or construction issues. We flag any obvious red flags and recommend expert review when needed. This approach helps owners and buyers avoid non-compliance costs and plan proactively. Many clients use our findings to start broader compliance efforts before occupancy or resale.

Some of the most common hidden issues we uncover include:

• HVAC systems at the end of their lifecycle
• Flat roof drainage problems
• Structural settling or foundation cracks
• Outdated or unsafe electrical panels
• Water intrusion in basements or behind facades
• Poor insulation or weatherproofing

Inadequate ADA accessibility

Sonic Home Inspections uses advanced tools such as thermal imaging, moisture meters, and drone inspections (for roofs) to spot these issues before they become expensive surprises.

Yes. One of Sonic’s key strengths is customizable scope. Some clients want a full top-to-bottom inspection, while others only need specific systems evaluated (e.g., roof, HVAC, structural). We offer Phase 1-style evaluations, tailored checklists, multi-building packages, and add-ons like mold, radon, or sewer inspections. By aligning the inspection scope with your goals—whether acquisition, occupancy, leasing, or risk mitigation—we ensure you get the right level of detail without overpaying.