When it comes to real estate, it’s no secret there are times when properties that have structural defects or other issues are sold to unsuspecting buyers. When this happens, needless to say the buyer is not only unhappy with the condition of their newly-acquired property, but is also stuck with property they may not be able to use themselves or sell to another interested party. To make sure that does not happen, more and more companies are starting to use thermal imaging as a way to ensure any property they are buying is in fact what it’s supposed to be and not something that has simply been passed from one buyer to another. As it turns out, thermal imaging is being used in many different ways when it comes to real estate inspections.
What Gets Inspected
Because commercial real estate deals often involve millions of dollars worth of property changing hands, it’s important that all aspects of the property be evaluated as thoroughly as possible. This is where thermal imaging comes in, since it can provide very detailed information about virtually all parts of the property. Some of the areas that it can be used for inspections include:
- Foundation
- Plumbing
- Electrical
- Roofing
- Fire Protection
When thermal imaging is used to conduct a real estate inspection, digital photographs also accompany the report. The purpose of the photos is to provide visual evidence regarding any deficiencies found in the structure, which can prove invaluable if major problems are found. When this happens, the corresponding report will outline not only the deficiencies found, but also provide estimates as to how much the repairs should cost. This can prove helpful in letting potential owners decide if they still want to pursue a deal for the property, or if they would rather decide to look elsewhere. Whatever the case may be, there’s little doubt thermal imaging can showcase even the slightest of deficiencies within the property.
Reasons for Thermal Imaging Inspections
Real estate inspections are performed for many different reasons for just as many varieties of clients, and can be extremely specific or very general in nature depending upon what the client wants and needs. Some of the most common reasons for conducting thermal imaging inspections include:
- Providing information to investors prior to closing
- Exit inspections for tenants in order to protect damage deposits
- Requests to inspect only certain parts of a building, such as the roof
- Pre-bid assessing for possible buyers
- Inspections required by lenders prior to authorizing financing
- Progress reports on construction
Virtually any type of commercial property can be inspected using thermal imaging technology, ranging from office complexes to large shopping malls. To make sure clients are provided access to the inspection information as quickly as possible, most reports are delivered electronically rather than through traditional mail, and are often available within 24 hours after the inspection is completed.
Identifying Past Problems and Potential Problems
One of the most useful aspects of thermal imaging inspections is being able to identify past problems the property has experienced, as well as point out any potential problem areas it may encounter later on. While the roof, interior and exterior walls, electrical, HVAC, and plumbing systems may be inspected via thermal imaging, problem areas may also be inspected more closely if needed. Some of the most common problems that may be exposed due to thermal imaging inspection include:
- Roof leaks
- Electrical overloads
- Inadequate insulation
- Plumbing leaks
- Hot spots
- Possible mechanical failures
This information can be extremely useful for numerous reasons. Potential buyers or investors can examine the findings and decide whether to continue with the project or back out, and it can also be used as evidence in pending or current lawsuits. If certain problems have been persistent in the property, such as roof leaks, these inspections can verify if proper methods have been used to correct the problem or show the problem still exists.
Put Our Experience to Work for You
Here at Wood Inspection Services, we work with a number of various clients to help answer questions about commercial properties. Having performed numerous inspections since 2001, we know what it takes to provide our clients with the information they want and need. Using the latest technology available, we have gained not just a local reputation for our expertise, but a national and international one as well. Using tomorrow’s technology today, we make customer service and satisfaction our number one priority. No matter what type of building needs to be inspected, our thermal imaging equipment and inspectors are up to the challenge. If you find yourself in need of answers prior to purchasing or investing in a commercial property, contact us and let us put our knowledge and experience to work for you. Here at Wood Inspection Services, there is no task we cannot handle