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We are open Mon - Fri: 8 am - 6 pm. Sat: 8 am - 1 pm.

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Our Services

We provide complete commercial property inspection services according to the International Standards of Practice for Inspecting Commercial Properties and the Code of Ethics.

Systems We Inspect at Every Commercial Property

Heating, Ventilation, and Cooling Systems (HVAC)

HVAC equipment represents one of the most significant capital expenditures in commercial buildings. A comprehensive inspection of heating, cooling, and ventilation systems evaluates equipment condition, air distribution effectiveness, and operational efficiency. Detailed reporting provides essential data for strategic planning and budgeting decisions regarding system maintenance, upgrades, or replacement.

Plumbing Systems

Commercial plumbing systems are essential infrastructure requiring proactive maintenance to prevent costly disruptions. Professional inspection examines fixtures, water supply systems, drainage networks, and water heating equipment to identify potential failure points. Early detection of leaks, corrosion, or capacity issues helps avoid business interruption and expensive emergency repairs.

Electrical Systems

Electrical infrastructure is the backbone of modern commercial operations, requiring thorough inspection for safety and capacity. Professional inspection examines power distribution, panel conditions, wiring adequacy, and code compliance throughout the facility. A comprehensive inspection ensures electrical systems meet current operational demands and identifies upgrade requirements for future needs.

Roof Surface and Drainage

Roofing systems represent substantial capital investments requiring strategic maintenance and replacement planning. Professional inspection examines membrane condition, drainage adequacy, structural integrity, and weatherproofing effectiveness. A comprehensive inspection identifies immediate repair needs and provides data for long-term roof management and budget planning.

Exterior Elements and Parking Areas

Building exteriors and site improvements significantly impact property value, accessibility, and operational functionality. A comprehensive evaluation examines building envelope components, parking surfaces, lighting systems, and accessibility compliance. Professional assessment identifies maintenance needs, safety concerns, and improvements necessary for optimal property performance and regulatory compliance.

Building Structure

Structural integrity is fundamental to building safety, occupancy, and long-term viability. Professional evaluation examines foundations, framing systems, floor structures, and load-bearing elements to identify signs of distress, settlement, or deterioration. A comprehensive assessment ensures structural adequacy for intended use and identifies any concerns requiring immediate attention or ongoing monitoring.

Interior Areas and Elements

Commercial interior spaces require careful assessment to maintain functionality, safety, and market appeal. A detailed inspection covers flooring, wall systems, ceilings, doors, windows, and specialized features to evaluate condition and identify maintenance requirements. Professional analysis supports strategic planning for interior improvements and space optimization decisions.

Life Safety Components

Life safety systems are critical building infrastructure requiring regular professional assessment for code compliance and occupant protection. A comprehensive evaluation examines fire protection equipment, emergency lighting, exit systems, and alarm components to ensure proper function and regulatory compliance. Professional inspection supports risk management and ensures building systems meet current safety standards.

Commercial Kitchens

Commercial kitchen operations depend on properly functioning safety and ventilation systems requiring professional evaluation. Thorough examination of exhaust systems, fire protection equipment, grease management, and cooking equipment assesses compliance with health and safety regulations. An expert inspection identifies operational risks and maintenance requirements for safe food service operations.

Do You Know the History of Your Land? 

Understanding the history of your land is critical, as activities from 50 or even 100 years ago—such as an old gas station—can lead to significant unexpected environmental problems and costly cleanup bills today. Environmental Property Audits Inc. (EPAI) and 4 Point Wind, specialize in environmental risk assessment. Their expertise protects individuals and businesses involved in real estate transactions from facing substantial financial and legal costs due to environmental contamination.

Environmental Property Audits Inc. (EPAI) and 4 Point Wind use two essential tools to assess a property’s true condition:

  1. Phase I Environmental Site Assessment (ESA): This is a historical background check of the property, involving a review of old documents, maps, and aerial photographs to identify past uses—such as manufacturing, dry cleaning, or hazardous material storage—that may have caused pollution. This process uncovers potential risks and expenses you might face.

  2. Property Condition Assessment (PCA): This is a detailed inspection of existing buildings and structures to determine their current value and estimate the cost of necessary repairs or upgrades.

 

For over 33 years, EPAI, in partnership with 4 Point Wind, has been recognized for its exceptional thoroughness, dedication, and comprehensive approach. They provide detailed support to help clients make informed real estate decisions and simplify the process.

Phase I ESA

A typical Phase I ESA involves researching the property’s history by reviewing regulatory files, government databases, aerial photographs, City Directories, and Sanborn Insurance Maps. A site reconnaissance is also conducted to identify physical evidence of environmental concerns. To ensure consistency and quality, 4 Point Wind, in collaboration with Environmental Property Audits Inc. (EPAI), adheres to the current ASTM E1527-21 industry guidelines. Their goal is to work with all parties in a real estate transaction to identify genuine environmental concerns without raising unnecessary red flags. Understanding the challenges of real estate transactions, EPAI and 4 Point Wind, aim to reduce stress and complexity for their clients. If a potential environmental concern—a “red flag”—arises during the Phase I ESA, indicating possible contamination, the team promptly recommends Phase II Testing. This subsequent investigation confirms the presence of contamination or definitively rules out any uncertainty from the initial findings.

The Scope of Phase II Testing

Phase II Testing is a comprehensive process designed to identify the specific nature and extent of contamination issues. It includes: -Collecting samples of soil and groundwater -Conducting soil gas surveys -Creating site contamination models and performing a risk evaluation These steps are essential for identifying specific contaminants, determining the extent of surface and subsurface migration, and assessing potential environmental or public health risks.

Cleanup Design & Management 

If contaminants are discovered, EPAI, in collaboration with 4 Point Wind, designs and manages the entire cleanup project. Services include: -Developing a comprehensive plan of action to address contamination -Coordinating and managing specialized remediation subcontractors -Obtaining all required agency permits -Reporting and monitoring project progress throughout the remediation process Their experienced team ensures that every aspect of the project complies with all applicable environmental laws and regulations, delivering a thorough and legal cleanup.

Property Condition Assessment (PCA) Explained

A Property Condition Assessment (PCA) is a detailed inspection of a commercial building to evaluate its current condition. The process involves two main components: 1. Reviewing Paperwork: Examining relevant documents, such as blueprints or building permits, related to the building’s construction and current state. 2. Physical Inspection: Conducting a visual evaluation of key systems and components, including: - Mechanical systems (boilers, furnaces, ventilation) - Electrical systems (wiring, panels, lighting) - Air conditioning (cooling equipment) - Plumbing (pipes, water fixtures) - Roofing (structure and materials) - Structural elements (foundations, walls, beams) - Parking and drainage (parking lots, sidewalks, water drainage systems). All reports from this assessment must follow the most current professional guidelines, known as the ASTM E2018-24 Standard (The Standard Guide for Property Condition Assessments: Baseline Property Condition Assessment Process).

Accessibility and Construction Services

EPAI, often in partnership with 4 Point Wind, offers additional, important services to support property owners: Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Audits EPAI/ 4 Point Wind conducts audits to ensure compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), a federal law (42 USC Section 12101) that requires property owners and renters to remove barriers preventing disabled individuals from accessing and using buildings. It also mandates auxiliary aids and services, such as sign language interpreters or Braille signs, for those with hearing, vision, or speech impairments. An ADA audit includes: - Identifying necessary improvements - Specifying required changes - Estimating costs for achieving full ADA compliance

Construction Documents and Oversight

Working together, EPAI and 4 Point Wind can also assist with the next steps after an assessment. They can produce the necessary construction documents needed to select contractors. This paperwork is then used to hire a company to install the required improvements. They can also supervise or oversee the selected contractor's work on behalf of the building owner, ensuring the job is done correctly.

Cleanup Design & Management

If pollutants are discovered, EPAI (Environmental Property Audits Inc.) will collaborate with 4 Point Wind to design and manage every part of the cleanup project. This collaboration will involve: - Creating a detailed plan of action to remove or reduce the contamination. - Coordinating and managing all specialized cleanup crews (subcontractors). - Obtaining all necessary permits from regulatory agencies. - Writing reports on the progress and findings. - Monitoring the project from the very beginning to the final completion. Our combined experts ensure that the entire project strictly follows all required environmental laws and regulations. The goal is a thorough and legal cleanup.

Underground Storage Tanks: A Hidden Risk 

Do you have, or have you ever had, a fuel storage tank buried on your property? These tanks are often overlooked, but they pose significant risks. While small tanks (1,100 gallons or less) may be exempt from federal regulations, state requirements vary, and new rules demand vigilance. A leaking tank can lead to costly contamination cleanup if a spill goes unnoticed or unreported. Four (4) Key points to understand: 1. Regulations Vary: Regardless of regulatory status, have your property inspected. 2. Professional Expertise: Licensed experts handle all aspects of cleanup, including excavation, soil and groundwater analysis, disposal of contaminated materials, and developing a remediation plan. 3. Tank Removal or Sealing: Specialists locate underground storage tanks (USTs) and either remove them (including pipes and hazardous fuel vapors) or fill them with safe material to abandon them in place. 4. Financial Liability: A leaking tank is not only a health concern but also a significant financial risk, as property owners may be responsible for cleanup costs.

Built around your goals and customized for your success. Reach out to discuss your inspection— we're here to help!

Request a Proposal

Need a certified commercial inspection? Get the insights you need to make informed decisions. Request a proposal today!

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