What is the key focus of commercial building inspections?

The key focus of commercial building inspections is primarily on verifying fire protection, egress, and accessibility systems. These elements are critical for ensuring the safety and well-being of occupants within a commercial building. Fire protection systems, such as sprinklers and alarms, are evaluated to confirm they meet code requirements and can effectively safeguard against fire hazards. Egress systems are essential for facilitating safe evacuation in emergencies, ensuring that exits are properly located, functioning, and free of obstructions. Accessibility systems ensure that the building complies with regulations such as the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), providing adequate access for individuals with disabilities.

While energy efficiency and cost savings are important for commercial projects, they are typically secondary concerns when it comes to inspections. Sustainability testing may be relevant during the development phase but does not fall under the primary objectives of an inspection. Additionally, confirming architectural aesthetics, although an aspect of design review, does not contribute directly to the health and safety of the building's occupants and is therefore not a focus of inspections. Instead, inspections are centered around compliance with safety codes and regulations that directly impact user safety and accessibility.