Commercial, industrial and residential property inspections
INSPECTION
Why are property inspections important?
Commercial, industrial or residential building inspections are essential when buying a property, and sometimes even mandatory in order to obtain financing or refinancing from a financial institution. For this reason, the OACIQ (Organisme d’autoréglementation du courtage immobilier du Québec) strongly recommends having your property inspected prior to purchase to ensure you are properly protected.
What is a commercial building inspection?
Our inspections consist of a thorough visual evaluation by an engineer to determine the overall condition of the building components and to identify the deficiencies. Genispec’s team of expert engineers, members of the Ordre des ingénieurs du Québec, performs thorough commercial building inspections to ensure that the building is free of any deficiencies or potential liabilities. Any deficiencies or physical anomalies identified will then be communicated in a report prepared by an OIQ member engineer. The commercial building inspection report also includes recommendations for correcting the deficiencies present, recommended time frames and an estimate of repair costs.
What are the inspection elements of a commercial building?
Moreover, Genispec’s industrial, commercial and multi-unit building inspections consider both interior and exterior elements:
- Structural elements and exposed elements of foundations;
- Building envelope (building facades);
- Underground parking;
- Mechanical systems;
- Electrical systems;
- Fire safety systems;
- Plumbing systems;
- Isolation and ventilation;
- Roof;
Our inspection reports are adapted to the requirements of financial institutions for the purchase or refinancing of commercial or industrial buildings.
What is included in a commercial building inspection report produced by Genispec?
A detailed commercial building inspection report, performed by an engineer who is a member of the Ordre des Ingénieurs du Québec, includes:
- Observations, description, recommendations and conclusion;
- Survey of deficiencies during the site visit;
- Recommended time frame to correct the deficiencies present;
- Forecast of the approximate cost of the deficiencies and maintenance required for the next 10 years.
Property inspections and building condition certificates for condominium unions
Building condition certificates are also essential for the maintenance of a building or a condominium. Our building inspectors conduct a thorough property inspection of the condition of the building components to determine what repairs or maintenance work needs to be done, along with recommended costs and recommended time-frames. Therefore, the building condition certificate can also be used in the contingency funds study for the condominium unions.
What is Genispec’s expertise in commercial building inspections?
Genispec is a Montreal-based firm of structural engineers that specializes in building inspections. We offer our services in the greater Montreal area and surrounding areas, including Hampstead, Saint-Laurent, Mont-Royal, Laval, Longueuil, Brossard, the West Island, Kirkland and more.
Protect your investment and contact our team to request a free quote for a property inspection or discover Genispec’s other building inspection services.
FAQ on Commercial building inspections
I’m an investor or buyer. Should I get a building inspection before purchasing?
Yes. An inspection by an engineer gives you a clear and technical understanding of the building’s condition. It helps you avoid costly surprises, strengthens your negotiation position, and ensures informed decision-making, especially for complex buildings like those with flat roofs, structural slabs, or advanced mechanical systems.
I’m a property manager. How is a commercial building inspection different from a residential one?
Commercial and industrial buildings often include more complex components such as flat roofing, three-phase electrical systems, central HVAC, and reinforced foundations. At Genispec, we adapt our inspections to these realities and may involve specialists or laboratories if needed.
I’m on the board of a mixed-use condo building. Do we need a separate inspection for the commercial section?
Yes. Commercial areas may have specific requirements related to floor loads, fire protection, or ventilation. Having them inspected by an engineer helps ensure the overall safety of the building and avoids confusion over shared responsibilities between residential and commercial units.
I’m a building owner. What does a commercial inspection with Genispec include?
Our inspections typically cover:
- Building structure (foundations, columns, slabs)
- Mechanical and electrical systems
- Roofing (membrane condition, water pooling, cracks)
- Emergency exits and fire safety systems
- Exterior cladding and common areas
Each inspection is performed by an engineer and adapted to the type of property, whether it’s a warehouse, retail space, or office building.
I’m a lender or insurer. Why require an engineer-led inspection?
A report signed by an engineer provides a reliable assessment of the building’s structure and systems. It may also include long-term cost projections, which are often required for loan approvals or insurance underwriting.
I’m a commercial tenant. Does it make sense to request an inspection?
Yes. Whether you’re signing a lease or renewing one, an inspection can confirm that the space is safe, compliant, and properly maintained. It also helps clarify maintenance responsibilities between you and the property owner.