by CFBIBlog | Jan 31, 2024 | CFBI Blog
Roughly 88% of homebuyers get a home inspection when they buy a house. Out of those inspections, almost the same amount show some kind of problem that needs to be fixed.
In a best-case scenario, all a homeowner needs to do is patch up a hole in their roof or replace a bathroom fixture. However, a typical home inspection does not include radon testing services. They’re focused more on the physical aspects rather than more pervasive ones.
Here’s why you’ll need to invest in radon services if you want to make sure your new Orlando area home is safe to live in.
What Is Radon?
Radon is a type of radioactive gas that is colorless, odorless, and tasteless. In other words, it is almost undetectable unless you specifically look for it with the right equipment.
On top of that, it’s a natural byproduct of uranium in soil, rock, and water. You can find radon entering your home through cracks in your foundation and walls, as well as through your water supply.
All homes have some level of risk for radon exposure, depending on factors such as your soil content and your house’s condition. Some regions have higher natural concentrations of uranium in the ground than others. A house with a basement is also at higher risk of radon infiltration.
A lack of data does not mean low radon potential. Nearly one in five Florida homes has tested positive for an elevated radon level. The only way to know for sure if your home is safe is with testing.
Dangers of High Radon Levels
Even though radon is naturally occurring, it can prove extremely dangerous to a person’s health through continued exposure. It has proven to be one of the leading causes of lung cancer and is estimated to have caused upwards of 14% of all lung cancers in a country.
Homeowners who smoke have an increased risk of lung cancer if they breathe in radon than non-smokers. Inhaled radon can also deliver radiation to your other organs at a lower level than your lungs.
Interestingly enough, radon in your water supply is not dangerous to ingest. It can become dangerous if you use that water throughout your home and that water evaporates into a gas.
Safe and Average Radon Readings
Technically speaking, there are no safe levels of radon in your home, due to its radioactive nature. Since radon is naturally occurring, there are levels that are acceptable within your home before you must take action against it.
The national indoor average is roughly 1.3 pCi/L, according to the United States Environmental Protection Agency. Outdoors, you can find about 0.4 pCi/L.
The EPA further recommends you deal with radon if the concentration exceeds 4 pCi/L, which is more than three times the national indoor average.
If you use well water, you’ll also want to test it for any radon contamination. While radon is relatively safe to ingest, it becomes dangerous once you start using it for things like showering, washing dishes, and cooking. Evaporating water carries radon with it, which becomes dangerous when inhaled.
Radon Testing Methods
Short-term radon testing, such as for homeowners, is available in a few different ways. You can find these tests sold at hardware stores, online, and even available through county health departments. These provide an initial assessment over the course of a week.
Charcoal canisters absorb radon gas in the air throughout the testing period. They are then sealed and sent to a lab for analysis.
There are also alpha track detectors that can record tracks left by alpha particles as radon decays.
A homeowner’s best option is to contact professional radon testing services that can use continuous radon monitors (CRM). These can detect radon levels over a short period, such as fluctuations, with more detailed results.
Treating High Radon Levels
If a short-term test shows high radon levels, then you may want to get another test to verify the findings. A long-term test can also be performed for more accurate results, but this can take over 90 days.
Those who plan to live in their home within that time period may want to take action to eliminate any radon on their property.
Radon mitigation systems overpower the natural vacuum under your house to provide an alternate route for it to vent. You’ll also want to seal any cracks in your foundation and around pipes to prevent radon entry. This simultaneously improves how well the vent system works.
These radon systems can cost a couple of thousands of dollars depending on the type and the design of your home. Some federal programs may be able to help reduce costs for low-income families.
Legal Requirements
High radon levels can have a big impact on real estate transactions. More homeowners are requesting radon testing as part of their home inspection process. While it isn’t legally required to test radon before you sell a property, it may be necessary to make the sale.
If the radon levels were known before the sale and there was a failure to disclose, then there could be legal ramifications for the realtor. Many states have specific disclosure laws that require sellers to disclose any known defects or hazards.
The buyer could sue for damages or rescind the sale if they find themselves in this situation. Alternatively, they could require the seller to pay for mitigation costs.
This is why an extensive home inspection is such a necessity when purchasing a house, even if you don’t think there’s anything wrong.
In Florida, there are also some businesses that are required to test for radon prior to the State issuing a business license or CO (Certificate of Occupancy). Some of the mandatory testing requirements cover facilities like assisted living, Pre-K, Schools and nursing homes. If you have received a request to perform mandatory radon testing, CFBI can help!
Don’t Skimp Out on Radon Services
While radon services may not seem like the most important part of buying a house, they can save your life down the line. Long-term exposure to airborne radon can cause damage to your lungs and even lung cancer. It’s best to get testing done before you move into your new home.
Central Florida Building Inspectors provides both residential and commercial building inspections. Our services cover mold, radon and gas, sewer scope inspections, and more. Tell us about your problem and schedule an inspection today.
by CFBIBlog | Jan 2, 2024 | CFBI Blog
Imagine owning property that paid for itself. You won’t have to worry about your mortgage, and you even have extra money to spend on other obligations. Your passive income stream will be significantly larger when you purchase commercial property.
However, it’s imperative to have a commercial building inspection checklist. This provides insight into key areas that need your attention.
The last thing you want is to buy a building that has underlying issues. Let’s explore what you should know when inspecting commercial property.
1. Roofs
Roofs are one of the most important segments of a commercial building inspection. Neglected roofs become safety hazards, such as if leaks are left unchecked.
A roof inspection will differ depending on the material the roof is made out of. To clarify, the process varies among metal roofs, slate roofs, and roofs with asphalt shingles.
2. Roofing Elements
The roof’s integrity isn’t the attribute inspectors will consider. They’ll also look at roofing elements. These include projections, flashing, gutters, etc.
Roofing elements are essential to consider since they play a large role in the overall quality of the roof. For instance, a roof with damaged roofing elements will likely be a concern during an inspection. This is true even if the integrity of the roof itself is relatively robust.
3. Exterior Wall Material
Many people overlook the importance of commercial building exterior wall inspections. As time goes on, exterior walls tend to accumulate damage from the elements. It’s not uncommon for sunlight, hail, snow, and ice to cause issues with masonry and siding.
Common problems include blistering, peeling, and cracking. Inspectors will also look for signs of termite infestations. These are essential to catch early before they evolve into a much greater issue.
4. Exterior Finishes
Finishes are susceptible to wear and tear. Vapor and condensation problems can also arise. A key component of a quality exterior finish is quality painting.
The paint should be free of cracking and peeling. Decorative elements are also inspected during this phase. These vary depending on the building, but they are typically made of stone, iron, or wood.
All three of these materials will deteriorate if left unchecked. They’re also vulnerable to the elements, particularly rain. Excess moisture can cause iron to rust and wood to rot, leading to potential damage.
5. Mechanical and Electrical Elements
It’s imperative to conduct a commercial building electrical system inspection. The same can be said about commercial building mechanical system inspections. Electrical inspections ensure power circuits run to the appropriate appliances.
They also ensure the wiring can handle the appliances that are used. To clarify, old buildings often weren’t wired in ways to accommodate the appliances used today. Mechanical inspections also include plumbing.
They look for obvious signs of deterioration or damage. They also inspect water and waste pipes for leaks or rust. The local gas company will test gas lines if they have not already.
6. Grounds
A crucial attribute of commercial building grounds is the ability to drain properly. Otherwise, water will accumulate and lead to exterior damage.
The grounds should be inspected after heavy rainfall to determine their capabilities to drain. Standing water is a major red flag that needs to be assessed immediately.
Those looking to purchase commercial property should never move forward with the transaction until they come up with a plan to handle this issue. As you might assume, a grounds inspection also assesses the landscape.
Elements like bushes and trees are examined for dead or diseased segments. At times, the presence of trees or plants could cause damage to the building’s exterior. This is especially true regarding paint.
In rare cases, tree roots could damage the building’s structure. If problems like these are discovered, action should be taken to resolve them and prevent them from reoccurring. This sometimes involves removing plants or trees entirely from the property.
7. Interior Inspection
This part of the inspection aims to identify structural issues within the building’s interior. Foundations are subject to a large number of stressors that can cause them to crack and expand.
Catching these early can mean the difference between whether you’re able to resolve them. The same can be said about undiscovered dampness. Each commercial building is different, and not every structure has the same elements.
In general, walls, floors, and ceilings are examined the most closely. Your inspector will also check the integrity of joists and beams. It’s crucial to hire a qualified professional, as oversights in this area can lead to significant injury and property damage.
Finding Commercial Building Inspection Services
Working with the right professional is imperative for getting the best results. Check their past reputation to see what other people have to say about their services. Were previous clients satisfied with their experiences?
Did they encounter issues the professional couldn’t help them resolve? Questions like these will provide valuable insight into what you can expect. Keep an eye out for fake reviews, as well.
It’s also important to check their pricing. You often get what you pay for, and it’s not recommended to choose the cheapest options. The last thing you want is to hire a budget inspection service that overlooks key attributes.
This can lead to a large number of complications, including legal issues. Do they seem enthusiastic about helping you? If they don’t seem interested in your project, you should continue your search elsewhere.
Don’t feel compelled to settle for service providers who can’t meet your needs. It’s best to look at their past projects, as well. As long as you do your due diligence, you’ll find the best inspection service for your needs.
Leverage Your Commercial Building Inspection Checklist
It’s imperative to properly consult your commercial building inspection checklist throughout the process. Otherwise, you can encounter a large number of issues you would’ve otherwise prevented. The tips in this guide will help ensure you get started on the right track.
Central Florida Building Inspectors prides itself on offering a large number of inspection solutions. We aim to deliver fast results without sacrificing quality. You’ll learn more about what we’re capable of when you get in touch with us today.
by CFBIBlog | Nov 27, 2023 | CFBI Blog
The U.S. Fire Administration estimates that there were 116,500 non-residential building fires in the U.S. in 2021. They resulted in $3.7 billion in direct property damage. These staggering figures are proof that fire is one of the most devastating forces that can affect a commercial building.
What’s even more unfortunate is that many fires can be prevented and mitigated. It only takes regular inspections to identify potential fire hazards. These are any conditions or materials that cause a fire or make it spread faster.
With that in mind, this brief safety guide aims to help you identify potential hazards in your building and protect your investment. We’ll explore what inspectors look for and highlight tips for addressing any issues so the occupants are safe. Keep reading to learn more.
Flammable Materials
One of the most obvious sources of fire hazards is the presence of flammable and combustible materials. These include paper, cardboard, wood, fabrics, plastics, oils, paints, solvents, and gases. Such materials can easily ignite and spread flames if stored improperly.
Reducing the risk from flammable materials starts with proper storage. Design an area for this that’s far from sources of heat and electricals. Use the right containers and labels for easy identification. Ensure that you dispose of any hazardous materials regularly as well.
Obstructed Emergency Access
Firefighters need quick access to water connections in an emergency. However, things like landscaping, dumpsters, and business equipment get in the way. They block the very fire department connections (FDCs) and valves needed to fight a fire.
This seemingly small oversight is a violation with serious consequences. For starters, blocked access slows down emergency response. The extra minutes allow fires to rage out of control. There is also an increased risk of injury as firefighters work to move heavy obstacles.
Ensure that outdoor areas near FDCs and valves are always clear. The interior valves, sprinkler system controls, and extinguishers should also be easy to access. Schedule a regular property inspection to catch and solve any issues that may hinder access.
Electrical Hazards
Faulty electrical systems are among the leading causes of fire. They are also among the most common dangers found during building inspections. Even the smallest issues can be incredibly dangerous if overlooked.
Inspectors look for specific dangers like damaged insulation, overloaded circuits, and loose wires. They also check for water leaks near electronics and too many extension cords. Any signs of overheating, like melted plastic or sparks, further raise red flags.
You’ll need a professional electrician to fix any issues. Regular inspections also play a vital role in preventing electrical hazards and keeping your property safe. Don’t wait until it’s too late - stay on top of electrical safety to protect your property and people.
Improper Fire Protection
Having fire extinguishers, alarms, and suppression systems is not enough. They only provide a false sense of security if they aren’t maintained properly, hence why many property owners fail inspections. Outdated extinguishers, deactivated alarms, and blocked sprinkler systems are useless.
Fire extinguishers must be recharged annually, and gauge pressures must be in optimal ranges. Smoke detectors should be clean and in working order rather than disabled with dust or grease residue. Alarms must have adequate volume to notify everyone in the building in case of a fire.
As for the suppression systems, they should have the last inspection tags. Also, ensure that the valves are open and caps intact. The sprinkler heads need to have ample clearance underneath them. This ensures that water flows freely to put out any fires that occur.
Blocked Exits
Having clearly marked exits that are easily accessible is a vital aspect of fire safety. It allows people to safely exit the building in case of a fire. However, inspectors often find blocked exits, missing exit signs, and faulty doors.
All these violations put the lives of everyone in your building at risk. Ensure that all the paths to the outside are always clear of debris and other blockages. Even the smallest things in the way can cause problems if people need to get out quickly during an emergency.
Place visible signs and lights above the exits. Ensure that the lights work even if the power goes out. Doors should open with ease, and egress paths are always clear.
The idea is to make it as easy as possible for people to get to safety during an emergency. As such, ignoring these basic safety measures endangers all within a building if a crisis strikes.
Faulty Equipment
It may not seem like it, but faulty equipment often becomes ignition points if not repaired. Motors that don’t work right, wires that are falling apart, gas pipes that leak, and parts that are worn out can all create avoidable dangers.
For example, take the case of a commercial freezer with a door that doesn’t seal properly. Ice builds up over time, causing the unit to work extra hard to maintain the temperature. This can overheat the motors and wires, sparking a fire.
A small gas leak near an oven poses an obvious risk of explosion. Yet, these minor repair issues often go unnoticed during the day-to-day operations.
Inspectors specifically target high-risk equipment. This includes ovens, machines near flammable items, pumps, HVAC systems, and generators.
They smell for gas leaks, listen for odd noises signaling issues, and use thermal cameras scanning for hotspots suggesting imminent failure.
Mitigating the risk posed by faulty equipment requires investing in regular maintenance. Staying on top of your commercial inspections also helps identify minor issues, giving you a chance to fix them promptly.
Don’t Gamble With Fire Hazards - Schedule Your Commercial Inspection Today!
Fire hazards are a serious threat to your commercial property and the people who work or visit there. By identifying and eliminating them, you can reduce the risk of fire and ensure the safety of everyone on your premises.
This is where Central Florida Building Inspectors Inc. comes in.
We specialize in evaluating commercial buildings for any hazards. Our team takes a comprehensive approach when assessing your property. We even provide a detailed report of our findings and recommendations so you know how to best protect your investment and peace of mind.
Schedule an appointment today to experience the CFBI difference - we can’t wait to hear from you!
by CFBIBlog | Sep 28, 2023 | CFBI Blog
“Don’t pee in the pool, or the water will turn purple!” your friends used to tell you back in the day while swimming during summer vacation. Sadly, chlorine in the water doesn’t turn purple when exposed to urine. Instead, it becomes less effective at tackling bacteria and viruses, turning the water into a cesspool for disease.
That’s only the beginning of the silent problems a pool could be hiding. A pool can look perfectly functional on the surface, yet have major issues that remain unseen. You’d never know about them unless you hired swimming pool inspection services.
Is it worth the effort to pay someone to do a pool inspection? Here are seven reasons why you should.
1. Inspecting Your Pool Reveals Leaks
Obviously, your swimming pool uses a lot of water. The average pool contains around 5,000 gallons when completely full. Imagine how much your water bill will be when draining and refilling it!
Now, imagine what happens when your pool has a leak. You would never notice, because the pool might be set to fill itself up automatically. Even a small leak could easily drain several dozen gallons of water per day.
Of course, these leaks can be very hard to find. All it takes is a small crack in the concrete for water to seep through into the ground.
If you notice an above-average water bill, or a water level that is lower than usual, schedule an inspection. This can help identify these leaks long before they gouge your water bill.
2. It Detects Mold Growth
Mold loves warm, humid places to grow. It just so happens that your pool is an excellent location for mold spores to bed down and germinate.
Mold can spread throughout your pool in unsuspecting ways. It may grow out of view within the skimmer door, spreading silently into the pipes. Your kids could be swimming alongside a mold infestation and never realize it!
Mold can be resilient, even in the presence of chlorine. Many people fall into the false sense of security that chlorine kills any and all unwanted infestations.
Mold is, of course, terrible for your respiratory system. It can cause lung infections and inflammation when inhaled.
Identifying and exterminating a mold outbreak before it gets really bad is essential. A pool inspection is the best way. Plus, the inspector may be able to figure out why mold keeps growing back after repeated removals.
3. It Identifies Safety Hazards
Next on your inspection checklist is ensuring the pool is safe to use. Safety hazards can come in the form of pool damage you otherwise overlook.
For example, broken tiles could cut the feet of children walking over them. They start off with a small crack that widens over time. Eventually, someone steps on it and the tile sticks out, and by then it’s too late.
Pools break and wear down like anything else in your home. As they do, they present risks to the health and safety of occupants. If you don’t have a regular inspection, someone could hurt themselves and require a hospital visit.
4. It Ensures the Filtration System Works
The backbone of every pool is an effective, well-running filtration system. Like HVAC, your filtration system keeps your pool clean, germ-free, and looking good. And like HVAC, it requires regular maintenance.
An inspection may reveal that you are in need of more pool maintenance. The filters could be in dire need of a swap, or you might have a loose rubber washer on the pump’s connectors.
The longer you go without maintaining these things, the worse your pool performs-and the costlier your utility bill gets. Spending the money to tune things up sooner rather than later is, at the end of the day, the most economical option.
5. It Keeps Chlorine Levels in Check
Chlorine is amazingly efficient at removing unwanted contaminants from your pool. Unfortunately, though, it’s also the basis for toxic gas. Although your pool isn’t going to present a serious threat to your kids’ safety, it can cause short-term health effects.
Having too much chlorine can cause skin rashes, red eyes, or provoke respiratory symptoms. Likewise, having too little chlorine reduces the effective pH needed to keep the pool clean-and makes it even tougher to tackle urine. You may never realize your chlorine levels are off without an inspection.
Maintaining healthy chlorine levels is tricky. It requires you to be something of a chemist, measuring the pH and adjusting the pellets and the dispersal. There’s no better time than during a pool inspection to ask questions about how to better maintain your chlorine levels.
6. It Lets You Know if You Need an Upgrade
For all you know, your pool could be underperforming. A simple upgrade, such as buying a better pump, could make it run much better than it does. You’d never know about this without having a regular inspection.
A pool inspector can identify the areas where you can make your pool look, feel, and perform better.
Inspections also present an excellent source of knowledge. Have a question about how to better clean your pool? Your technician can give suggestions and recommend tools for you to buy.
7. It Keeps Everything Up to Code
Every state has firm regulations on pools. Restrictions on how big they can be, how they drain off, and so on. For all you know, your pool may not be up to regulation standards.
For example, you may have an electrical issue with the wire grounding. This not only violates the law, it could very well be a risk to your own well-being. Hire swimming pool inspection services to make sure your pool is up to snuff with local red tape.
Get Swimming Pool Inspection Services With CFBI
Swimming pool inspection services help you identify current and future issues with your pool that you wouldn’t notice otherwise. Inspecting your pool can identify mold growth, pool safety hazards, and deficiencies in needed pool maintenance. You never know what secrets your pool could be hiding, so it’s important to schedule an inspection regardless of the pool’s condition.
CFBI provides a wide variety of home and commercial solutions in the Orlando and Tampa area. Reach us here to schedule an appointment.
by CFBIBlog | Aug 29, 2023 | CFBI Blog
Have you ever walked into a building and wondered about its structural soundness? Have you considered buying or leasing a commercial space?
Regular inspections are essential for safety and compliance. That is especially true if you own or manage commercial buildings in Central Florida.
In this article, we’ll dive deep into what commercial building inspections entail. Keeping up-to-date with inspection processes can make a difference in your investment decisions. Read on to uncover the five things you need to know!
1. The Importance of Commercial Building Inspections
The safety and integrity of commercial buildings don’t only happen. Before any commercial space becomes operational, it must undergo a thorough inspection. These inspections ensure several important elements.
Safety
A building’s safety is the bedrock of its operations. Inspections act as a shield, guarding occupants against unforeseen hazards. Those hazards may include:
- Electrical faults
- Structural weaknesses
- Potential fire threats
Compliance
It’s not only about building standards. It’s about maintaining a reputation.
Ensuring the building aligns with local, state, and national building codes is vital. Non-compliance can result in hefty penalties and tarnish businesses’ image.
Longevity
Think of inspections as a health check-up for buildings. Businesses can avoid expensive repair costs by identifying potential issues early on.
Commercial building inspections are the unsung heroes. They ensure that commercial edifices are operational and optimal.
They not only guarantee safety and compliance. But they also offer peace of mind to stakeholders. They can rest easy knowing their establishment stands on solid ground.
2. The Difference Between Residential and Commercial Building Inspection
Residential and commercial building inspections serve the same core purpose. They both aim to ensure safety and compliance. But there are vital distinctions.
Size & Complexity
The most evident difference lies in the scale. Commercial buildings are larger than homes. Their architecture has these notable distinctions:
- Many floors or units
- Expansive spaces
- Varied purposes within a single structure
This scale and intricacy need a deeper, more extensive inspection process.
Equipment & Systems
Picture a typical house and a high-rise office building. The latter is bound to house advanced, large-scale systems essential for operation.
Such large-scale systems are anything from elevators to vast HVAC systems. Inspecting these ensure they work and meet specific safety standards.
Regulations
Building codes have intricate guidelines that properties must adhere to. But, these regulations tend to be even more rigorous with commercial buildings.
The reason for this is the sheer number of occupants. There’s an elevated risk with more people. So, the standards are set higher to ensure their safety and well-being. Recognizing these differences is paramount for property owners, investors, and inspectors.
3. The Inspection Process: What Does It Involve?
Understanding the building inspection process is pivotal when involved in commercial real estate. The process has multiple steps.
Exterior Inspection
This process covers the building’s facade, parking, landscaping, and drainage. It’s essential to spot issues like cracks or water pooling that are a red flag.
Interior Inspection
Commercial building inspectors look at the condition of walls, floors, and ceilings. There are other internal structures that inspectors may check. This inspection can reveal issues like mold, leaks, or structural problems.
System Evaluation: This involves checking the functionality of electrical, plumbing, and HVAC systems.
Documentation: Inspectors provide a comprehensive report detailing their findings and recommendations once completed.
After receiving the report, the building owner should address the noted issues. The most serious problems should be a priority. Regular inspections ensure safety and maintain the building’s value and function.
4. When to Schedule Commercial Building Inspections
Regular inspections ensure the continued safety and functionality of commercial buildings. There are some critical times you should schedule these.
Before Buy or Lease
Venturing into commercial real estate can be a significant investment. Before finalizing any buy or lease agreement, it’s wise to have a detailed inspection. This ensures you are stepping into a sound space without hidden problems.
After Renovations
New parameters come into play when a commercial space undergoes modifications. You must ensure that any changes to the structure follow building codes. An inspection post-renovation offers this assurance.
Periodic Maintenance Checks
As one would get a routine health check-up, commercial buildings need regular assessments. Scheduled inspections help spot minor issues before they turn into major problems.
This proactive approach safeguards the building’s longevity. It also leads to significant savings from costly future repairs.
The timing of commercial building inspections is as crucial as the inspection itself. Being proactive can make a marked difference in the life of a commercial property.
5. Choose the Right Inspector for the Job
Central Florida has a vast pool of commercial building inspectors. But choosing the right one is crucial. These are the factors to consider:
Credentials and Experience
The foundation of a competent inspector lies in their credentials. Certification assures that they’ve undergone the necessary training to check commercial properties. Beyond this, experience is critical.
An inspector with a track record of assessing commercial buildings has much knowledge. They can spot issues that a less seasoned eye might miss.
Specialization
The world of commercial real estate is diverse. That’s anything from sprawling malls to compact office spaces. It’s important to know that each property type also has unique challenges.
Some inspectors might specialize in specific commercial properties. Selecting someone whose specialization aligns with your property type is helpful. Doing this ensures a more nuanced inspection.
Recommendations
The proof of the pudding is in the eating, as they say. When choosing an inspector, past client experiences can offer valuable insights.
Before finalizing your choice, ask for references or look at reviews. Hearing about an inspector’s reliability and thoroughness lets you know what to expect.
Central Florida offers many options for commercial building inspectors. But a discerning approach will ensure you secure the best professional for the job.
Your Building’s Health Is Worth It!
The bustling landscape of Central Florida is where commercial spaces dot the horizon. Commercial building inspections aren’t a regulatory formality. They ensure these edifices’ safety, functionality, and longevity.
Are you considering purchasing, leasing, or renovating a commercial space in Central Florida? Trust only the best.
Contact Central Florida Building Inspectors today. They will ensure your building stands tall and safe for years.
by CFBIBlog | Aug 4, 2023 | CFBI Blog
Did you know that some Americans are budgeting up to three weeks of income toward summer vacations? If you run a hotel, that means you need to prepare for a surge in bookings. And that also means you need to make sure you’re operating a safe building where guests can feel comfortable.
Plan on committing to regular building inspections from certified experts. And keep reading to learn about the nine benefits of having your hotel’s balcony railings inspected!
1. Ensure a Safe Building for Guests
The main reason to get a balcony inspection is to make sure you’re providing a safe environment for your guests. When people book a stay at your hotel, they have expectations that their safety is top of mind.
Summer storms can wreak havoc on building materials. This is particularly true in areas prone to hot and humid summers. If you operate a hotel in an area with volatile weather, you’ll need to be especially committed to routine hotel inspections.
2. Discover Safety Issues
A balcony inspector is trained to spot problems that conflict with balcony code requirements. Their job is to offer an objective account of your building’s condition. Further, they will provide recommendations for improvements and, in some instances, estimated costs.
Even if you think you are good at spotting issues like rot or loose screws, you won’t have the expertise of someone trained as an inspector. For the most thorough evaluation, you need to hire a professional to look at your balcony and building.
They will understand how problems like rusted metal or poor drainage can contribute to bigger problems down the road. They also can look at things like support beams and other areas of vulnerability.
3. Gain Access to the Best Inspection Methods
Quality building inspectors will have sophisticated ways to inspect your building. You’ll learn much more about the state of your structure than you would by just making quick visual assessments. Beyond just the railings, inspectors can give you a detailed report regarding all aspects of your building.
Drones can provide footage of your roof and other portions of the property that are difficult to see. Inspectors will use moisture meters to assess the integrity of your structure’s walls. They also will know when to wear protective gear, like safety goggles or harnesses.
4. Avoid Liability
The last thing you want to see happen is a guest sustaining an injury at your hotel. If a guest falls or hurts themself on account of a faulty balcony railing, you will be liable for the problem.
You may need to cover the costs of medical bills. And your hotel’s reputation will sink if people know that the structure is unsafe. You can prevent these scenarios by getting regular inspections and heeding the suggestions.
5. Help Determine Your Maintenance Budget
Investing in regular hotel inspections may sound like a hassle. But doing so can help you plot an annual budget and account for upcoming expenses more easily.
For example, if you own a waterside hotel, corrosion is a realistic expectation. High salinity levels in the air can break down balcony materials more quickly.
An annual inspection can help you understand the state of your fasteners, railing, and decking. And you’ll be able to anticipate a timeline for future repairs.
6. Comply With Regulations
Do you know the regulations regarding inspections in your state? As a business owner, you should check. You may need to have hotel inspections at particular intervals to operate legally.
Turn to a state-licensed inspector for these evaluations. You can trust that these individuals will have the experience and trained eye to spot problems.
For instance, they will know if the type of railings you have are compliant with current requirements. And they will assess things like the condition of your railing, the spacing of the slats, and the level of rust.
7. Steer Clear of Bigger Expenses
Think of balcony railing inspections as a preventative effort. In other words, you can avoid much more costly repairs to your property later if you address smaller issues first.
Your balcony inspector might suggest trimming nearby trees to avoid the buildup of debris. They may suggest replacing parts that are warped, water damaged, or rusted.
These smaller efforts are worth your time. Maintain a balcony repair checklist after meeting with an inspector so you can prevent larger structural repairs later.
8. Maintain a More Attractive Property
A balcony inspection can keep your property looking its best. While safety is the top goal, the curb appeal of your property matters, as well. An inspection can alert you to structural issues, many of which also show up in the appearance of balcony railings.
Waterproofing a railing or replacing one as needed will enhance the appearance of your hotel. And your guests will notice. A well-kept hotel reflects well on you, and it might just earn you better ratings.
9. Improve Your Property’s Value
Lastly, you should pursue an inspection because it can boost your hotel’s value. An attractive hotel with strong structural integrity could command a higher asking price. Should you ever seek to sell your property, you’ll have an advantage.
Gradually maintain and improve your property over time. Then you won’t have to spend a lot on last-minute improvements. You also will be less likely to face unpleasant surprises when a potential buyer has the property inspected.
Get Balcony Railings Inspected
You want to feel confident that the balcony railings in your hotel are sturdy when guests lean over them. Make sure you’re having regular balcony and hotel inspections. Professional inspectors can help you spot structural issues before they become major problems.
When you need hotel inspections to keep your property safe, contact us for help!
