1.
Purpose

2.
Definitions

3.
Use

4.
Inspection

5.
Research

6.
Walk-Through Survey

7.
Report

8.
Limitations, Exceptions and Exclusions

9. Ethics

1.  Purpose

1.1  The purpose of this document is to define good
practice and to establish a reasonable approach for the performance
of an inspection of a commercial property.

2.  Definitions

2.1  Core definitions

2.1.1  Commercial Property -  A commercial property is
defined as the building structures and improvements located on a
parcel of commercial real estate.  These may include
structures such as buildings with residential units operated for
profit, mixed-use buildings, strip malls, motels, factories, storage
facilities, restaurants, and office buildings.

2.1.2  Inspection - The inspection is defined as the process
of an inspector collecting information through visual
observation during a walk-through survey of the subject
property, conducting research about the property, then
generating a meaningful report about the condition of the property
based on the observations made and research conducted by the
inspector.  A commercial inspection requires the inspector
to make observations, conduct research, and report findings.

2.1.2.1  Observations - Observations are defined as those
potential items of interest noted by the inspector during the
walk-through survey portion of the inspection.

2.1.2.2 
Research - Research is defined as the process of gathering
information through document review and interview to augment the
observations made during the walk-through portion of the
inspection.  This research may include reviewing readily
available documents such as previous inspection reports,
building permits, code violation notices and environmental studies.
This research may also include interviews with readily available
personnel such as building managers, tenants and owners.

2.1.2.3  Report - An
inspection report is defined as a written communication
describing the issues discovered from observations
made and research conducted by the inspector that are, in the
inspector's opinion, are likely to be of interest to his/her
client.  A report may contain photographs of observations made
during the walk-through survey portion of the inspection and/or
copies of documents reviewed during the research portion of the
inspection.

2.2 
Terminology commonly found in commercial property inspection reports

• Above Grade Wall: A
  wall more that is mostly above grade and enclosing conditioned
  space.
  

  
  

• Access: That which
  enables a device, appliance or equipment to be reached.
  

  
  

• Access Panel: A closure
  device used to cover an opening into a duct, an enclosure, or
  equipment.
  

  
  

• Accessible: Can be
  approached or entered by the inspector safely, without difficulty,
  fear or danger.
  

  
  

• Accessibility: Level of
  access a building offers people with disabilities.
  

  
  

• Accessory Structure: An
  additional building to the primary building.
  

  
  

• Activate: To turn on,
  supply power, or enable systems, equipment, or devices to become
  active by normal operating controls. Examples include turning on the
  gas or water supply valves to fixtures and appliances or
  activating electrical breakers or fuses.
  

  
  

• Actual Knowledge: The
  knowledge possessed by an individual as opposed to that discovered
  through document review.
  

  
  

• Addition:  An
  extension or increase in the conditioned space of a building.
  

  
  

• Adverse Conditions:
  Conditions that may be dangerous for the inspector and may limit
  the walk-through survey portion of the inspection.
  

  
  

• Adversely Affect: To
  constitute, or potentially constitute, a negative or destructive
  impact.
  

  
  

• Air Intake: An opening in
  a building's envelope whose purpose is to allow outside air to be
  drawn in to replace inside air.
  

  
  

• Aisle: An exit
  access component that provides a path of egress travel.
  

  
  

• Alarm Signal: A
  signal indicating an emergency, such as a fire, requiring
  immediate action.
  

  
  

• Alarm System: Warning
  devices, installed or free-standing, including but not limited to:
  carbon monoxide detectors, flue gas and other spillage detectors,
  security equipment, ejector pumps and smoke alarms.
  

  
  

• Alteration: Any
  construction or renovation to an existing structure other than a
  repair or addition.  Also, a change in a mechanical system.
  

  
  

• Appliance: Utilization
  equipment, generally other than industrial, that is installed or
  connected as a unit to perform one or more functions.
  

  
  

• Approved: Acceptable to
  the authority having jurisdiction.  Also, accepted by an
  internationally recognized organization such as InterNACHI.
  

  
  

• Arc-Fault Circuit
  Interrupter: A device intended to provide protection from the
  effects of arc faults by recognizing characteristics unique to
  arcing and by functioning to de-energize the circuit when an arc
  fault is detected.
  

  
  

• Authority Having
  Jurisdiction (AHJ): An organization, office, or individual
  responsible for enforcing the requirements of a code or standard, or
  for approving equipment, materials, an installation, or a
  procedure.   The AHJ is often the building owner, health
  department, insurance agent, or fire marshal.

  
  

• Automatic: That which
  provides a function without the necessity of human intervention.

  
  

• Automatic
  Fire-Extinguishing System: A system of devices and equipment
  which automatically detects a fire and discharges in an attempt to
  put it out.

  
  

• Automatic Sprinkler
  System: An automated sprinkler system for fire protection
  purposes.

  
  

• Balcony: Exterior floor
  projecting from and supported by a structure without additional
  independent supports.

  
  

• Band Joist: Dimensional
  lumber used as a perimeter joist of the building framing.

  
  

• Basement: That portion of
  a building which is partly or completely below grade.

  
  

• Basement Wall: A wall of
  a building that is mostly below grade.

  
  

• Bathroom: A room
  containing plumbing fixtures such as a water closet, urinal,
  bathtub, or shower.

  
  

• Bedroom: A room used for
  sleeping purposes.

  
  

• Bidet:  A
  toilet-like plumbing fixture designed to promote posterior hygiene. 
  Not a toilet.
  

  
  

• Bonding: The permanent
  joining of metallic parts to form an electrically conductive path
  that ensures electrical continuity and the capacity to conduct
  safely any fault current likely to be imposed.
  

  
  

• Branch Circuit: The
  circuit conductors between the final overcurrent device protecting
  the circuit and the outlet(s).
  

  
  

• Building: The primary
  building subject of the commercial inspection.

  
  

• Building Code: Rules and
  regulations adopted by the governmental authority having
  jurisdiction over the construction and/or  remodeling of the
  commercial property.
  

  
  

• Building Department:
  Local authority having jurisdiction over the construction,
  alteration, and use of a property.

  
  

• Building Envelope:
  The enclosure that defines the heated/cooled area of a
  building, namely the exterior walls and roof.

  
  

• Building
  Systems: Components, assemblies and systems which are a part of
  the overall building and property such as pavement, flatwork,
  structural components, roofing, exterior walls, plumbing, HVAC,
  electrical components, fire prevention, etc.
  

  
  

• Built-in: Permanently
  installed.
  

  
  

• Certified Commercial
  Inspector (CCI):  A professional designation and a
  U.S. federal certification mark administered by the International
  Association of Certified Home Inspectors, Inc. (InterNACHI).
  

  
  

• Chimney:  A
  structure containing one or more flues for removing gases to the
  outside atmosphere.
  

  
  

• Cleanout: An
  accessible opening in the drainage system used for the removal of
  possible obstructions and for inspections.  An opening in
  a chimney that provides access to the flue for cleaning purposes. 
  

  
  

• Clearance: The minimum
  distance through air measured between the surface of something
  heat-producing and the surface of something combustible.
  

  
  

• Clearly Identifiable:
  Capable of being recognized by a person of normal vision.
  

  
  

• Client: The party that
  retains the inspector and pays for the inspection.
  

  
  

• Code Official:  The
  officer or other government designated authority charged with
  enforcement of building codes.
  

  
  

• Combustible: Describes
  any material that will burn.
  

  
  

• Commercial Cooking
  Appliances: Appliances used in a commercial food service
  establishment for heating or cooking food.
  

  
  

• Commercial
  Property: The building structures and improvements
  located on a parcel of commercial real estate.  These
  may include structures such as buildings with residential units
  operated for profit, mixed use buildings, strip malls, motels,
  factories, storage facilities, restaurants, and office buildings.
  

  
  

• Component: A permanently
  installed or attached fixture, element or part of a system.
  

  
  

• Concealed: Rendered
  inaccessible by the structure or finish of the building.  Wires
  in concealed raceways are considered concealed, even though they may
  become accessible by withdrawing them.
  

  
  

• Condition: The plainly
  visible and conspicuous state of being of a material object or
  thing.

  
  

• Conditioned Space: An
  area or room within a building being heated or cooled.

  
  

• Connector:  The pipe
  that connects a fuel-burning appliance to a chimney.

  
  

• Consultant: A
  person with particular expertise in a subject who assists the
  inspector with portions of the inspection.
  

  
  

• Contamination: An
  impairment of the quality of the potable water.
  

  
  

• Crawlspace: The area
  within the confines of the foundation and between the ground and the
  underside of the lowest floor structural component.
  

  
  

• Cross Connection: Any
  connection between two otherwise separate piping systems, one of
  which contains potable water and the other which contains something
  which could contaminate the potable water.
  

  
  

• Crown: The sloped top of
  a masonry chimney designed to shed water away from the flue; also
  called a splay or a wash. 
  

  
  

• Damper: A valve or plate
  for controlling draft or flow of gases, including air, in a vent or
  ductwork.  A typically manually-operated plate for
  controlling draft in a flue.  
  

  
  

• Decorative: Ornamental;
  not required for the operation of essential systems and components
  of a building.
  

  
  

• Deck: Exterior floor
  system supported on at least two opposing sides by an adjoining
  structure and/or post, piers, or other independent supports.
  

  
  

• Defensible Space: An area
  around a building designed to slow the rate of an advancing
  wildfire.
  

  
  

• Deferred Maintenance
  Items: Deficient items that cannot be remedied with routine
  maintenance, generally caused by neglect.
  

  
  

• Describe: To report in
  writing a system or component by its type, or other observed
  characteristics, to distinguish it from other components used for
  the same purpose.
  

  
  

• Destructive: An act of
  demolishing, damaging, or probing any system, structure, or
  component, or to dismantle any system or component that would not be
  taken apart by an ordinary person in the course of normal
  maintenance.
  

  
  

• Determine: To arrive at
  an opinion or conclusion pursuant to examination.
  

  
  

• Disconnected: Shut down.
  

  
  

• Dismantle: To open, take
  apart or remove any component, device or piece that would not
  typically be opened, taken apart or removed by an ordinary occupant.
  

  
  

• Duct: A passageway, tube,
  or conduit utilized for the transmission of air and vapors.
  

  
  

• Due Diligence: A level of
  care in the inspection process which varies depending upon the
  scope of work agreed upon by the inspector and his/her client.
  

  
  

• Dwelling Unit: A single
  unit providing complete, independent living facilities, including
  permanent provisions for living, sleeping, eating, cooking and
  sanitation.
  

  
  

• Easily Visible: Describes
  systems, items, and components that are both conspicuous and in
  plain sight, absent of the need for intrusive inspection
  techniques, probing, disassembly or the use of special
  equipment.
  

  
  

• Easement: That portion of
  a land or property reserved for use by a person or agency other than
  the owner of the property.
  

  
  

• Egress: A means of
  exiting.
  

  
  

• Emergency Shut-off Valve:
  A valve designed to shut off the flow of gases or liquids.
  

  
  

• Energy Analysis: A method
  for estimating the annual energy use of a building.
  

  
  

• Energy Recovery
  Ventilation System: A system that uses air-to-air heat
  exchangers to recover energy from exhaust air for the purpose of
  preheating or precooling outdoor air prior to supplying the air to a
  space.
  

  
  

• Engineering Service: Any
  professional service or creative work requiring engineering
  education, training, and experience and the application of special
  knowledge of the mathematical, physical and engineering sciences to
  such professional service or creative work as consultation,
  investigation, evaluation, planning, design and/or supervision of
  construction for the purpose of assuring compliance with the
  specifications and design, in conjunction with structures,
  buildings, machines, equipment, works or processes.
  

  
  

• Enter: To access or go
  into an area to observe visible components.
  

  
  

• Evaluate: To assess the
  systems, structures or components of a building.
  

  
  

• Evidence: Plainly visible
  and conspicuous material objects or other things presented to the
  senses that would tend to produce conviction in the mind of an
  ordinary person as to the existence or non-existence of a fact.
  

  
  

• Examine: To visually
  examine. To look for and identify material physical deficiencies in
  systems, structures, or components of a building through a
  non-intrusive physical inspection.  See Inspect.
  

  
  

• Existing: Buildings,
  facilities or conditions which are already in existence.  This
  standard is designed to be used to inspect existing commercial
  properties.
  

  
  

• Exit Discharge: The
  portion of a means of egress between the termination of an exit and
  a public way.
  

  
  

• Exposed: Capable of
  being inadvertently touched by a person because it is not suitably
  guarded, isolated, or insulated.
  

  
  

• Exterior Property: The
  open space on the property.
  

  
  

• Exterior Wall: An outside
  wall of a building, either above or below grade.
  

  
  

• Extermination: The
  control or elimination of insects, rats, vermin, or other pests.
  

  
  

• Fenestration:
  Fenestration includes products with glass and non-glass glazing
  materials including skylights, roof windows, vertical windows,
  opaque doors, glazed doors, or glazed block. 
  

  
  

• Fire Apparatus Access
  Road: A road, fire lane, public street, private street,
  or parking lot lane that provides access from a fire
  station to a facility.
  

  
  

• Fire Code Official: The
  fire chief or other authority charged with the enforcement of a
  code.
  

  
  

• Fire Department Master
  Key: A special key carried by fire department officials which will
  open key boxes on commercial properties.
  

  
  

• Fire Resistance Rating:
  The time that materials or assemblies can withstand fire exposure.
  

  
  

• Fire Wall: A wall
  separating buildings or subdividing a building to prevent the spread
  of fire.
  

  
  

• Fireplace Lintel: A
  horizontal, noncombustible member that spans the top of the
  fireplace opening. 
  

  
  

• Fixture: Component.
  

  
  

• Flood Level Rim: The edge
  of a fixture from which water overflows.
  

  
  

• Floor Area, Gross: The
  floor area within the inside perimeter of the exterior walls.
  

  
  

• Floor Area, Net: The
  actual occupied area not including accessory areas such as
  corridors, stairways, restrooms, mechanical rooms and closets.
  

  
  

• Flue: A passage
  through which gasses move from the fire chamber to the outer air.
  

  
  

• Foundation: The base upon
  which the structure or wall rests; usually masonry, concrete, or
  stone, and generally partially underground.
  

  
  

• Function: The action for
  which an item, component, or system is specially fitted or used or
  for which an item, component or system exists; to be in action or
  perform a task.
  

  
  

• Functional: Performing,
  or able to perform, a function.
  

  
  

• Functional Drainage: The
  emptying of a plumbing fixture in a reasonable amount of time
  without overflow when another fixture is drained simultaneously.
  

  
  

• Functional Flow: A
  reasonable flow of water supply at the highest and farthest fixture
  from the building main when another fixture is operated
  simultaneously.
  

  
  

• Further Evaluation: A
  degree of examination beyond that of a typical and customary
  non-intrusive physical examination.
  

  
  

• Fusible Link: A form of
  fixed-temperature heat-detecting device sometimes used to restrain
  the operation of an electrical or mechanical control until a certain
  temperature is reached, usually signifying a fire.
  

  
  

• Garbage: The animal or
  vegetable waste resulting from preparation or consumption of food.
  

  
  

• Grease: Animal fat,
  vegetable shortening, or oil used in preparing food or resulting
  from cooking.
  

  
  

• Grounded: Connected to
  the earth or to some conducting body that serves in place of the
  earth.

  
  

• Grounded, Effectively:
  Intentionally connected to the earth through a ground connection or
  connections of sufficiently low impedance and having sufficient
  current-carrying capacity to prevent the buildup of voltages that
  might otherwise result in undue hazards to connected equipment or to
  persons.

  
  

• Ground-Fault Circuit
  Interrupter (GFCI): A device intended for the protection of
  personnel that functions to de-energize a circuit.

  
  

• Grounding Electrode: A
  device that establishes an electrical connection to the earth.

  
  

• Habitable Space: Space in
  a structure for living, sleeping, eating or cooking. 
  Bathrooms, closets, halls, storage areas and utility spaces are not
  considered habitable spaces.

  
  

• Hearth: The floor within
  a fireplace.

  
  

• Hearth Extension:
  Noncombustible material in front of and at the sides of a fireplace
  opening.

  
  

• Heated Slab:
  Slab-on-grade construction in which the heating elements are placed
  within or under the slab.

  
  

• Hood: A device that
  directs and captures grease-laden vapors and gases from a cooking
  appliance.

  
  

• Immediate Cost: Estimated
  cost of remedying an existing safety hazard or repairing a system or
  component that will likely fail within a year.
  

  
  

• Humidistat: A device
  used to automatically control relative humidity.

  
  

• Imminent Danger: A
  condition which could cause serious or life-threatening injury or
  death.

  
  

• Infestation: The presence
  of insects, rats, vermin, or other pests.

  
  

• Infill: Area of the
  railing system bounded by the railing posts, cap, rail, and the
  deck.

  
  

• Infiltration: The
  uncontrolled inward air leakage into a building.

  
  

• Inspected Property: The
  readily accessible areas of the buildings, site, items, components,
  and systems included in the inspection.
  

  
  

• Inspection: The process
  of an inspector collecting information through visual
  observation during a walk-through survey of the subject
  property, conducting research about the property, and then
  generating a meaningful report about the condition of the property
  based on the observations made and research conducted by the
  inspector.  A commercial inspection requires the inspector
  to make observations, conduct research, and report findings.
  

  
  

• Inspector: One who
  performs the commercial property inspection.
  

  
  

• Installed: Attached or
  connected such that the installed item requires tool for removal.
  

  
  

• Interview: To discuss
  with those who have knowledge about the subject property.
  

  
  

• Intrusive: Destructive.
  

  
  

• Key Box: A lockable
  device which permits the fire department to access the building in
  an emergency.
  

  
  

• Labeled: Devices,
  equipment, or materials to which have been affixed a label, seal,
  symbol or other identifying mark of product evaluation.
  

  
  

• Ledger: Dimensional
  lumber attached to the building framing and used for supporting
  the section of a deck adjacent to the building.
  

  
  

• Life Expectancy:
  Average function time in years assuming regular maintenance.
  

  
  

• Listed: Equipment,
  materials, or services included in a list published by an
  organization that is acceptable to the authority having jurisdiction
  and concerned with evaluation of products or services, that
  maintains periodic inspection of production of listed equipment or
  materials or periodic evaluation of services, and whose listing
  states the either the equipment, material, or service meets
  appropriate designated standards or has been tested and found
  suitable for a specified purpose.
  

  
  

• Mantel: A shelf or
  horizontal ornament above a fireplace opening. 
  

  
  

• Manual: Capable of being
  operated by a person.
  

  
  

• Material: Having
  significant importance, as in material defect.  This term is
  reserved for describing things of significant importance.
  

  
  

• Material Defect: A
  condition of a commercial property or any portion of it that would
  have a significant adverse impact on the value of the real property
  or that involves unreasonable risk to people on the property. 
  The fact that a structural element, system or subsystem is near, at
  or beyond the end of the normal useful life of such a structural
  element, system of subsystem is not by itself a material
  defect.
  

  
  

• Means of Egress: A
  continuous and unobstructed path out of a building to a public way.
  

  
  

• Mold: A form of
  fungus. Some molds can cause disease in humans.
  

  
  

• Noncombustible: A
  substance that will not burn when subjected to fire.
  

  
  

• Normal Operating
  Controls: Devices such as thermostats that would be operated by
  ordinary occupants which require no specialized skill or knowledge.
  

  
  

• Observations: Those
  potential items of interest noted by the inspector during the
  walk-through survey portion of the inspection.
  

  
  

• Observe: To see through
  visually directed attention.
  

  
  

• Obvious: A condition or
  fact not likely to be ignored or overlooked.
  

  
  

• Occupancy Load: The
  number of people permitted in a building based on the means of
  egress.
  

  
  

• Occupant: Any individual
  living, sleeping, or having possession of a space within a building.
  

  
  

• Operate: To cause systems
  to function or turn on with normal operating controls.
  

  
  

• Operational: Systems or
  components capable of being safely operated.
  

  
  

• Oral Consultation: A
  limited visual inspection of specific systems, structures, or
  components of a building where no written report is prepared by the
  inspector and the inspector's findings, opinions, conclusions, and
  recommendations are orally communicated by the inspector to the
  client.
  

  
  

• Owner: Any person, agent,
  operator, firm or corporation having a legal or equitable interest
  in a property.
  

  
  

• Panelboard:
  A panel including buses and automatic overcurrent devices
  designed to be placed in a cabinet accessible only from the
  front.

  
  

• Permanently Installed:
  Fixed in place (i.e., screwed, bolted, or nailed), as distinct from
  components, systems, or appliances considered portable or
  freestanding.

  
  

• Phase I: A type of
  fireplace and chimney inspection that exceeds the standards required
  by a traditional home inspection.

  
  

• Physical Deficiency: A
  major defect, a significant deferred maintenance item, a component
  or system that has exhausted most or all of its
  remaining useful life (regardless of its actual life
  expectancy), a safety concern, or anything that could
  potentially cause the need for an expensive repair.
  

  
  

• Pitch: Angle or
  inclination, usually of a roof.

  
  

• Plenum: An air
  compartment or chamber which connects one or more ducts and forms
  part of an air distribution system.

  
  

• Premises: A lot, plot,
  parcel of land, property, or building.

  
  

• Pressure Drop: The loss
  in pressure due to friction or obstruction in pipes, valves,
  fittings, regulators and burners and the length of pipes and the
  number of elbows.

  
  

• Pressure Regulator: A
  device placed in a gas line for reducing, controlling and
  maintaining the pressure downstream of the device.

  
  

• Primary Building: A
  building that an inspector has agreed to inspect, excluding all
  accessory buildings with the exception of the primary parking
  structure.

  
  

• Primary parking Structure
  and Surfaces: A building and appurtenant surfaces for the purpose of
  vehicle storage associated with the primary building.

  
  

• Public Way: A street,
  alley or yard open to the outside and leading to a public area.

  
  

• Publicly Available
  Information: Information that is accessible or available to
  anyone upon request.
  

  
  

• Raceway:  An
  enclosed channel or conduit designed expressly for holding
  wires or cables.

  
  

• Ramp: A sloped walking
  surface.

  
  

• Readily Accessible:
  Describes the area of the subject property that has been made
  available to the inspector at the time of the walk-through survey
  portion of the inspection, and/or an item or component if, in the
  judgment of the inspector, it is capable of being safely observed
  without the need of portable ladders, the removal of obstacles, the
  detachment or disengagement of connecting or securing devices, or
  other unsafe or difficult procedures to gain access and/or a
  document that has been made available to the inspector for use in
  the research portion of the inspection.
  

  
  

• Readily Ascertainable:
  Describes information that is available to the inspector within
  reasonable time at a nominal cost so that it can be practically
  reviewable during the research portion of the inspection.
  

  
  

• Readily Available:
  Describes the information, personnel, and documents that are made
  available quickly to the inspector.
  

  
  

• Receptacle:  A
  contact device installed at the outlet for the connection of an
  attachment plug. 
  

  
  

• Recreational Facilities:
  Spas, saunas, steam baths, swimming pools, tennis courts, playground
  equipment, and other exercise, entertainment or athletic facilities.
  

  
  

• Remaining Useful Life: A
  subjective estimate or guess made by the inspector based upon
  his observations and experience as to the number of remaining years
  that a component will be functional before needing
  replacement.
  

  
  

• Removable: Capable of
  being transferred to another location easily.
  

  
  

• Replacement Air: Air
  deliberately brought into a structure to compensate for the air
  being consumed or expelled.
  

  
  

• Repair: The
  reconstruction or renewal of any part of an existing building.
  

  
  

• Report: The written
  communication describing the issues discovered from
  observations made and research conducted by the inspector
  and which, in the inspector's opinion, are likely to be of
  interest to his/her client.  A report may contain photographs
  or digital images of observations made during the walk-through
  survey portion of the inspection and/or copies of documents reviewed
  during the research portion of the inspection.
  

  
  

• Representative Number: A
  sufficient number to serve as a typical or characteristic example of
  the item(s) inspected.
  

  
  

• Representative Sampling:
  A small quantity of components of any system or structure, enough
  like others in its class or kind, to serve as an example of its
  class or kind.
  

  
  

• Research: The
  process of gathering information through the review of documents and
  interviews to augment the observations made during the
  walk-through portion of the inspection.  This research may
  include reviewing readily available documents such as previous
  inspection reports, building permits, code violation notices and
  environmental studies.  This research may also include
  interviews with readily available personnel such as building
  managers, tenants and owners.
  

  
  

• Roof Assembly: A system
  designed to provide weather protection and including the
  roof covering, underlayment, roof deck, insulation, vapor retarder
  and interior finish.
  

  
  

• Rubbish: Waste materials
  other than garbage.
  

  
  

• Scope of Work: Work that
  deviates from this standard depending on budget, time constraints,
  purpose of the inspection, age of the subject property, and risk
  tolerance of the client which the inspector and client have agreed
  to.
  

  
  

• Screw Lamp Holder: A
  lamp base that requires a screw-in-type lamp such as a compact
  fluorescent, incandescent, or tungsten-halogen bulb.
  

  
  

• Short-Term Cost:
  Estimated cost of repairs which may not require immediate
  attention, but which should not be delayed for more than two years.
  

  
  

• Shut Down: Turned off,
  unplugged, inactive, not in service, or not operational.
  

  
  

• Single-Wall, Metal
  Chimney: A typically field-constructed chimney not
  permitted in one- and two-family dwellings.  
  

  
  

• Sleeping Unit: A room or
  space in which people sleep.
  

  
  

• Smoke Alarm: A single or
  multiple alarm responsive to smoke and not connected to a sprinkler
  system.
  

  
  

• Smoke Detector: A device
  that senses particles of combustion.
  

  
  

• Solid Fuel: Wood,
  coal, pellets, and other materials that can be burned
  for heat. 
  

  
  

• Special Consultant: A
  person with particular expertise in a subject who assists the
  inspector with portions of the inspection.
  

  
  

• Special Equipment: Any
  tools or devices other than those normally used by an inspector to
  perform a typical and customary, non-invasive, physical examination
  of the systems, structures, and components of a building, including,
  but not limited to: levels, probes, meters, video or audio devices
  and measuring devices.
  

  
  

• Standard: Often used
  to mean InterNACHI' Standards of Practice for Inspecting Commercial
  Properties.
  

  
  

• Storefront: A
  nonresidential system of doors and windows typically at floor level
  of a commercial building.
  

  
  

• Structural Component: A
  component which supports the building's dead and live loads.
  

  
  

• Structure: An assemblage
  of various systems and components to function as a whole.
  

  
  

• Subject Property: The
  commercial property that is the subject of the inspection.
  

  
  

• Suggested Remedy: An
  opinion offered as to a course of action to repair a
  deficiency.  Suggested remedies are outside the scope of a
  commercial inspection.
  

  
  

• Sump: A tank or pit that
  receives sewage or waste water typically located below the drain
  system and so must be emptied by mechanical means.
  

  
  

• Sump Pump: An automatic
  water pump powered by a motor and typically controlled by a
  float for the removal of waste water from a sump pit.
  

  
  

• System: An assembly of
  various components which function as a whole.
  

  
  

• Technically Exhaustive: A
  comprehensive and detailed examination beyond the scope of a
  commercial property inspection which might involve, but
  would not be limited to: specialized knowledge or training, special
  equipment, measurements, calculations, testing, research, analysis,
  meters, scaffolding, dismantling, probing, or troubleshooting. 
  Also, where the cost of obtaining information or the time required
  to conduct a portion of the inspection and prepare that portion of
  the inspection report could outweigh the likely usefulness of
  the information obtained or could be detrimental to the orderly and
  timely completion of the client's transaction. 
  

  
  

• Thermostat: An automatic
  control device used to maintain temperature at a set point.
  

  
  

• Thimble: The tube or
  lining through a wall that a connector passes through to
  enter a flue or that a flue passes through to exit a roof. 
  

  
  

• Timely Access: Access
  to the subject property and documentation required by the inspector
  to perform the inspection.
  

  
  

• Toilet Room: A room
  containing a water closet or urinal but not a bathtub or shower.
  

  
  

• Trap: A fitting that
  provides a liquid seal to prevent the emission of sewer gases and
  odors.
  

  
  

• Tree Crown: The branches
  growing out from a tree including twigs and foliage.
  

  
  

• Unsafe: A condition
  of an area, system, component, or procedure which, in the
  inspector’s opinion, poses a significant risk to the personal
  safety of either the occupants and/or him/herself. The danger to the
  occupants may be due to damage, deterioration, improper
  installation, a change in accepted standards, etc. The danger to the
  inspector may be due to electrical, fuel, height, sewage, water,
  debris, weather or other environmental conditions, and may restrict
  his/her access and limit or prevent the inspection. 
  

  
  

• Valve: A device used in
  piping to control the gas or liquid supply downstream of the device.
  

  
  

• Vapor Retarder: A
  vapor-resistant material, membrane, or covering such as foil,
  plastic sheeting, or insulation facing which limits the amount of
  moisture vapor that passes through a material or wall assembly.
  

  
  

• Ventilation: The natural
  or mechanical process of supplying and removing air from any space.
  

  
  

• Verify: To confirm or
  substantiate.
  

  
  

• Visible: That which may
  be easily observed during the walk-through survey portion of the
  inspection.
  

  
  

• Walk-Through Survey: That
  portion of the inspection where the inspector makes
  non-intrusive, visual observations of readily accessible areas
  of the subject property.
  

  
  

• Wall Protector:
  Noncombustible shield between a wall and anything heat-producing for
  the purpose of reducing required clearance.  
  

  
  

• Workmanlike: Executed in
  a skilled manner.
  

  
  

• Yard: An open space on
  the same lot with a building.
  

  
  

• Zone: The space or group of spaces within a
  building with conditioning controlled by a single device.

  
  

2.3  Common abbreviations
and acronyms used in commercial property inspection reports

• ADA:
  Americans with Disabilities Act (US).

  
  

• AHJ:
  Authority having jurisdiction.

  
  

• BUR:
  Built-up roofing.

  
  

• CCI:
  Certified Commercial Inspector.

  
  

• CMI:
  Certified Master Inspector.

  
  

• CPI:
  Certified Professional Inspector.

  
  

• CO:
  Certificate of Occupancy.

  
  

• COMSOP:
  Commercial Standards of Practice.

  
  

• CSA:
  Canadian Standards Association.

  
  

• EIFS:
  Exterior insulation and finish system.

  
  

• EPA:
  Environmental Protection Agency (US).

  
  

• HVAC:
  Heating, ventilation and air conditioning.

  
  

• IAC2:
  International Association of Certified Indoor Air Consultants.

  
  

• IAQ:
  Indoor air quality.

  
  

• InterNACHI:
  International Association of Certified Home Inspectors.

  
  

• ICC:
  International Code Council.

  
  

• IR:
  Infrared.

  
  

• MICB:
  Master Inspector Certification Board.

  
  

• NEC:
  National Electric Code (UK).

  
  

• NFPA:
  National Fire Protection Association.

  
  

• PE:
  Professional Engineer.

  
  

• RICS:
  Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors (UK).

  
  

• RUL: Remaining useful life.
  

  
  

2.4 
Other inspection related terms

Other inspection related
terms can be found by visiting InterNACHI's searchable online
Glossary at www.nachi.org/glossary.htm

3.  Use

3.1  Royalty-free use

Although this standard is protected by copyright and other laws, the
International Association of Certified Home Inspectors,
Inc. (InterNACHI) hereby grants non-exclusive, royalty-free
license to all members of InterNACHI and their clients
and all public authorities, government agencies and government
employees throughout the world to use this code as desired
including making copies, posting, transmitting, and incorporating
into reporting software, free of charge, without the need for
pre-approval, provided that each use is clearly attributed
to InterNACHI. 

Acceptable
examples of attribution include "performed in accordance with
InterNACHI's Commercial SOP," "based on InterNACHIcomsop"
or "see www.internachi.org/comsop." 

Nothing in this license shall
preclude InterNACHI from modifying this standard and users
should regularly check for the latest revision at
www.nachi.org/comsop.htm which
supersedes earlier versions.

3.2  Conflicts with other
standards, codes, local laws, and manufacturer's instructions.

There likely exist other standards, codes, local laws, and
manufacturer's instructions that differ or are in conflict with
this standard and with each other.  Although this standard does
not require an inspector to know or discover all the provisions that
may pertain to every situation, this standard does require an
inspector, if aware of such conflicts, to author the inspection
report based on the requirements that provide the greatest protection
of life and property, in the inspector's judgment.  This
standard is not intended to usurp or abridge adopted codes or
ordinances.

3.3  Substantial compliance

The inspector shall substantially abide by this standard unless
otherwise agreed to in writing by the inspector and client.

3.4  Disclaimer of
liability

InterNACHI administers the process in the development of its
standards.  InterNACHI does not independently test, evaluate, or
verify the accuracy of any information or the soundness of any
judgments contained in its standards.  InterNACHI disclaims
liability for any personal injury, property or other damages of any
nature whatsoever, whether special, indirect, consequential or
compensatory, directly or indirectly resulting from the publication,
use of, or reliance on this document.  InterNACHI also makes no
guarantee or warranty as to the accuracy or completeness of any
information published herein.

Anyone using this document
should rely on his or her own independent judgment or, as
appropriate, seek the advice of a competent professional in
determining the exercise of reasonable care in any given
circumstances.

4.  Inspection

4.1  Objective

The objective of an inspection is to provide
written communication describing the issues discovered from
observations made and research conducted by the inspector and
that, in the inspector's opinion, are likely to be of interest
to his/her client and to enhance the client's information and
knowledge about the commercial property to improve
decision-making for buying, selling, maintaining, or improving
the property.

4.2  Who may perform
the inspection

Any portion of the inspection including the walk-through survey,
research, and report generation, may be performed by the inspector,
his/her staff, or any consultant hired by the inspector.  This
standard recognizes that for the majority of commercial inspections,
the inspector is likely an individual with a general, well rounded
knowledge of commercial properties and that the inspector or client
may want to augment the inspector's skills with specialty consultants
who have particular expertise in certain areas.  The decision to
hire specialty consultants will of course rely on budget and time
constraints as well as the risk tolerance of the client. 

4.3  Varying levels of due diligence

This standard is designed as a baseline from which the inspector
and client can develop and agree to a scope of work that may
deviate from this standard depending on budget, time constraints,
purpose of the inspection, age of the subject property, and risk
tolerance of the client.  The level of due diligence
should be set where the cost, in time and money, of
acquiring information about the subject property will not
likely exceed the value of that information.   Therefore,
an inspection performed in accordance with this standard will
not be technically exhaustive. 

4.3.1  Sample language for
use when defining the scope of work

"The inspection will be performed in accordance with
InterNACHIcomsop except that... "

4.3.2  Representative observations

In recognizing that the client likely has the goal of acquiring
information about the subject property at a cost, in time and money,
that does not exceed the value of that information, representative
observations are not just permitted by this standard, but
recommended as well.

4.4  Uncertainty

The client should understand that no inspection report is completely
accurate.  A report is only the written communication
of the observations made and research conducted by the
inspector.  The report contains those items which
in the inspector's opinion are likely to be of interest to
his/her client. 

4.5  Subjectivity

The client should understand that the inspection report is, to a
large degree, the subjective opinions of the inspector based
on his/her observations and research within the limits of
access, time, and budget and without the aid of special equipment
or meters and without dismantling, probing, testing,
or troubleshooting and without detailed knowledge of the
commercial property, its components or its systems.  The
inspection report is not much more than a subjective professional
opinion. 

4.6  Not an
architectural or engineering service

An inspector performing a commercial inspection in accordance
with this standard is not practicing architecture or
engineering.   

4.7  Not a warranty,
guarantee or insurance policy

The inspection is not a warranty and the inspection report is
merely the written communication of the inspector's subjective
opinion on the condition of the subject property.

5.  Research

5.1  Objective

The objective of research, including the review of
documents and the performing of interviews, is to augment the
information obtained during the walk-through survey and to
provide supporting documentation to the inspection report. 

5.2  Document procurement

It is the client's responsibility to obtain copies of all documents
and provide them for the inspector.  These documents are most
often obtained from the seller or from local government offices. 
The inspector is not responsible for gathering or paying for copies
of appropriate documents to be reviewed unless these tasks are
specifically assigned to the inspector in the scope of work
agreement.

5.3  Documents to be
reviewed and included in the inspection report

The inspector should review all documents provided by the client and
owner.  The inspector should also make an inquiry and review of
any other documents that can be reasonably procured on-site or
from the building owner or manager such as Certificates of Occupancy,
building code violation notices, repair invoices, and warranties. 
The inspector is not required to uncover and review information
that is not provided or cannot be reasonably ascertained or
acquired on-site.  Copies of documents that the inspector
believes may be of interest to the client and copies of documents
that support the inspector's opinions should be included in the
inspection report.

5.3.1 Examples of documents the
inspector may want to request for review

• 
  Accessibility surveys

  
  

• 
  Appraisals

  
  

• 
  Building plans

  
  

• 
  Certificates of Occupancy

  
  

• 
  Citations

  
  

• 
  Deck age records, plans and construction permits.

  
  

• 
  Deck and balcony maintenance, power washing, painting, treating,
  repair and modification history

  
  

• 
  Emergency evacuation plans

  
  

• 
  Environmental studies

  
  

• 
  Evacuation drill records

  
  

• Fire
  detection test and maintenance records
  

  
  

• 
  Fire door inspection reports

  
  

• 
  Fire prevention plans

  
  

• 
  Fire extinguisher service records

  
  

• 
  Fire records

  
  

• 
  Flame resistant certificates

  
  

• 
  Flood plain maps

  
  

• 
  Floor plans

  
  

• 
  Kitchen grease cleaning records

  
  

• 
  Kitchen post fire inspections

  
  

• 
  Maintenance records

  
  

• 
  Manufacturer's installation instructions

  
  

• 
  Notices

  
  

• 
  Permits

  
  

• 
  Power washing records

  
  

• 
  Previous inspection reports

  
  

• 
  Proposals

  
  

• 
  Rent records

  
  

• 
  Repair estimates/invoices

  
  

• 
  Safety inspection records

  
  

• 
  Seller disclosures

  
  

• 
  Sprinkler head replacement records

  
  

• 
  Utility bills

  
  

• Warranties

  
  

5.4  Interviews

The inspector should identify and interview the person(s) with the
most knowledge about the condition of the building.  Typically,
this will be the building owner or manager.  Unless otherwise
agreed to in the Scope of Work agreement, it is the responsibility of
the client to arrange to have this person(s) on hand for
interview by the inspector on the day of the walk-through survey. 

5.5  Pre-inspection
questionnaires

The inspector may request that the owner, building manager and/or
client fill out pre-inspection questionnaires to gather information. 
The inspector may rely that these responses are truthful. 
In cases where parties refuse to fill out questionnaires in
writing, the inspector may interview the parties and fill out the
questionnaires for them.  The inspector should note in the
report if he/she filled out the questionnaire based on an interview
and whether such interview was performed in person, by telephone, or
by email.  Copies of all responses to such questionnaires should
be included in the inspection report. 

5.6  Reliance

The level of accuracy of information varies depending on its source. 
The inspector may rely on information obtained to the extent that the
information appears to be accurate and complete.  This standard
does not require the inspector to independently verify the accuracy
of the documents reviewed by the inspector or included in the report
nor the statements made by those interviewed by the inspector.

5.7  Fraud

The inspector is not a fraud investigator and this standard does not
require the inspector to look for intentionally hidden deficiencies
in the subject property.  The inspection report is supplementary
to the seller's disclosures.

5.8  Previously generated
reports

A previously generated inspection report should be treated no
differently than any other document reviewed during the research
portion of the inspection and like information collected from any
other source, information obtained from a previously generated
report should reference its source in the new inspection report. 
No portion of a previously generated report should be used as a
substitute for the new inspection report.

6.  Walk-Through Survey

6.1  Objective

The objective of the walk-through survey is to allow the inspector to
visually observe the subject property, gather information and note
items of interest.

6.2  Access responsibility

It is the client's responsibility to arrange for the inspector to
receive timely access to the subject property for the
walk-through survey portion of the inspection and access to all
documents and interviewees needed for the research portion of the
inspection.  This includes access to all documents,
information, and previously generated reports in the client's
possession.  The inspector is not responsible for obtaining,
reviewing, or providing information should the source withhold,
impede or delay access.   Anything that hinders
the inspector's access should be noted in the report.

6.3  Revisits

It is expected that the inspector will perform only one
walk-through survey per inspection report.  However, it may be
necessary for the inspector to revisit certain areas of the subject
building after performing the research portion of the inspection.

6.4  Inspector safety

It is the responsibility of the inspector to perform the
walk-through survey safely.

6.5  Observations

6.5.1  Roof

I. The
inspector should inspect from ground level, or eaves or roof top (if
a roof top access door exists):

A. The roof covering.

B. For presence of
exposed membrane.

C. Slopes.
D. For evidence
of significant ponding.
E. The gutters.
F. The downspouts.

G. The vents, flashings, skylights, chimney and other roof
penetrations.
H. The general structure of the roof from the
readily accessible panels, doors or stairs.

I.  For the need for repairs.

II. The
inspector is not required to:

A. Walk on any pitched roof surface.
B. Predict service life
expectancy.
C. Inspect underground downspout diverter drainage
pipes.
D. Remove snow, ice, debris or other conditions that
prohibit the observation of the roof surfaces.

E. Move insulation.
F.
Inspect antennae, lightning arresters, de-icing equipment or similar
attachments.

G. Walk on any roof areas that
appear, in the opinion of the inspector, to be unsafe.

H. Walk on any roof areas if
it might, in the opinion of the inspector, cause damage. 

I. Perform a water test.

J. Warrant or certify the roof.
K. Walk on any roofs
that lack rooftop access doors.

6.5.2
 Exterior

I. The
inspector should inspect:

A. The siding, flashing and trim.
B. All exterior doors, decks,
stoops, steps, stairs, porches, railings, eaves, soffits and fascias.

C. And report as in need of
repair any safety issues regarding intermediate balusters,
spindles, or rails for steps, stairways, balconies, and railings.

D. A representative
number of windows.
E. The vegetation, surface drainage and
retaining walls when these are likely to adversely affect the
structure.

F. The exterior for
accessibility barriers.

G. The storm water
drainage system.

H. The general
topography. 

I. The parking areas.

J. The sidewalks.

K. Exterior lighting.

L. The landscaping.

M. And determine that a 3-foot clear space
exists around the circumference of fire hydrants.
N. And describe
the exterior wall covering.

II. The
inspector is not required to:

A. Inspect or operate screens, storm windows, shutters, awnings,
fences, outbuildings, or exterior accent lighting.
B. Inspect
items, including window and door flashings, which are not visible or
readily accessible from the ground.
C. Inspect geological,
geotechnical, hydrological and/or soil conditions.
D.
Inspect recreational facilities.
E. Inspect seawalls, break-walls
and docks.
F. Inspect erosion control and earth stabilization
measures.
G. Inspect for proof of safety-type glass.

H. Determine the integrity of
the thermal window seals or damaged glass.
I. Inspect underground
utilities. 
J. Inspect underground items.
K. Inspect
wells or springs.
L. Inspect solar systems.
M. Inspect
swimming pools or spas.
N. Inspect septic systems or cesspools.

O. Inspect playground equipment.
P. Inspect sprinkler
systems.
Q. Inspect drain fields or drywells.

R. Inspect manhole covers.

S. Operate or evaluate remote-control devices or test
door or gate operators.

6.5.3  Wood
decks and balconies

I. The
inspector should inspect:

A. With naked eye, for deck and balcony members that are
noticeably out of level or out of plumb.

B. For visible decay.

C. For paint failure and
buckling.

D. For nail pullout (nail
pop).

E. For fastener rust, iron
stain, and corrosion. 

F. And verify that
flashing was installed on the deck side of the ledger board.

G. For vertical members
(posts) that have exposed end grains.

H. For obvious trip hazards.

I. For non-graspable
handrails.

J. Railings for height
less than the 36 inch minimum.*

K. Guardrails and infill
for openings that exceed the 4 inch maximum.*

L. Open tread stairs for
openings that exceed the 4 and 3/8 inch maximum.*

M. Triangular area
between guardrails and stairways for openings that exceed the 6 inch
maximum.*

N. Built-up and
multi-ply beam spans for butt joints.

O. For notches in
the middle third of solid-sawn wood spans.

P. For large splits
longer than the depths of their solid-sawn wood members.

Q. For building egresses
blocked, covered, or hindered by deck construction.

R. For the possibility of wetting from gutters,
downspouts, or sprinklers.

*See
www.nachi.org/stairways.htm
for formal standards (compliance verification in
entirety not required).

II. The
inspector is not required to:

A. Discover insect infestation or damage.

B. Inspect, determine, or test
the tightness or adequacy of fasteners.

C. Determine lumber grade.

D. Measure moisture content.

E. Inspect for or determine
bending strength.

F. Inspect for or determine
shear stress.

G. Determine lag screw or bolt
shear values.

H. Calculate loads.

I. Determine proper spans or
inspect for deflections.

J. Discover decay hidden by
paint.

K. Verify that flashing has
been coated to prevent corrosion.

L. Determine that
post-to-footing attachments exists.

M. Dig below grade or remove
soil around posts.

N. Crawl under any deck with
less than 3 feet headroom or remove deck skirting to acquire access.

O. Determine proper footing
depth or frost line.

P. Verify proper footing size.

Q. Perform pick tests.

R. Perform or provide any
architectural or engineering service.

S. Use a level or plumb bob.

T. Use a moisture meter.

U. Predict service life
expectancy.

V. Verify compliance with
permits, codes or formal standards.

W. Inspect for disabled
persons accessibility barriers.

X. Determine if deck blocks,
covers, or hinders septic tank or plumbing access.

Y. Determine easement encroachment compliance.

6.5.4 
Basement, foundation and crawlspace

I. The
inspector should inspect:

A. The basement.
B. The foundation.
C. The crawlspace.
D.
The visible structural components.

E. And report on the location
of under-floor access openings.
F. And report any present
conditions or clear indications of active water penetration
observed by the inspector. 

G. For wood in contact or
near soil.

H. And report any general
indications of foundation movement that are observed by the
inspector, such as but not limited to sheetrock cracks, brick cracks,
out-of-square door frames or floor slopes.

I. And report on any cutting, notching and boring of
framing members which may present a structural or safety concern.

II. The
inspector is not required to:

A.
Enter any crawlspaces that are not readily accessible or where entry
could cause damage or pose a hazard to the inspector.
B. Move
stored items or debris.
C. Operate sump pumps.
D. Identify
size, spacing, span, location or determine adequacy of foundation
bolting, bracing, joists, joist spans or support systems.
E.
Perform or provide any engineering or architectural service.
F.
Report on the adequacy of any structural system or component.

6.5.5  Heating
and ventilation

I. The
inspector should inspect:

A. Multiple gas meter installations, such as a building with multiple
tenant spaces, and verify that each meter is clearly and permanently
identified with the respective space supplied.

B. The heating systems using
normal operating controls and describe the energy source and heating
method.
C. And report as in need of repair heating
systems which do not operate.
D. And report if the heating
systems are deemed inaccessible.

E. And verify that a permanent
means of access with permanent ladders and/or catwalks is present for
equipment and appliances on roofs higher than 16 feet.

F. And verify the
presence of level service platforms for appliances on roofs
with a 25 percent slope or greater.

G. And verify that a luminaire
and receptacle outlets are provided at or near the appliance.

H. And verify that the system
piping appears to be sloped to permit the system to be drained.

I. For connectors, tubing and
piping that might be installed in a way that exposes them to
physical damage.

J. Wood framing for cutting,
notching and boring that might cause a structural or safety issue.

K. Pipe penetrations in
concrete and masonry building elements to verify that they are
sleeved.

L. Exposed gas piping for
identification by a yellow label marked "Gas" in black
letters occurring at intervals of 5 feet or less.

M. And determine if any
appliances or equipment with ignition sources are located in public,
private, repair or parking garages or fuel-dispensing facilities.

N. And verify that fuel-fired
appliances are not located in or obtain combustion air from sleeping
rooms, bathrooms, storage closets or surgical rooms.

O. For the presence of exhaust
systems in occupied areas where there is a likelihood of excess heat,
odors, fumes, spray, gas, noxious gases or smoke.

P. And verify that outdoor air
intake openings are located at least 10 feet from any hazardous or
noxious contaminant sources such as vents, chimneys, plumbing vents,
streets, alleys, parking lots or loading docks.

Q. Outdoor exhaust
outlets for the likelihood that they may cause a public nuisance
or fire hazard due to smoke, grease, gases, vapors or odors.

R. For the potential of
flooding and evidence of past flooding that could cause mold in
ductwork or plenums.

S. Condensate drains.

II. The inspector is not required to:

A. Inspect or evaluate interiors of flues or chimneys, fire
chambers, heat exchangers, humidifiers, dehumidifiers,
electronic air filters, solar heating systems, fuel tanks,
safety devices, pressure gauges, or control mechanisms.
B.
Determine the uniformity, temperature, flow, balance, distribution,
size, capacity, BTU, or supply adequacy of the heating system.

C. Light or ignite pilot flames.
D. Activate
heating, heat pump systems, or other heating systems when ambient
temperatures or when other circumstances are not conducive to safe
operation or may damage the equipment.
E. Override electronic
thermostats.
F. Evaluate fuel quality.

G. Verify thermostat
calibration, heat anticipation or automatic setbacks, timers,
programs or clocks.

H.  Inspect tenant-owned
or maintained heating equipment.

I. Determine ventilation
rates.

J. Perform capture and
containment tests.

K. Test for mold.

6.5.6  Cooling

I. The
inspector should inspect:

A. Multiple air conditioning compressor installations, such as a
building with multiple tenant spaces, and verify that each compressor
is clearly and permanently identified with the respective space
supplied.

B. The central cooling
equipment using normal operating controls.

C. And verify that a luminaire
and receptacle outlet are provided at or near the appliance.

D. And verify that a permanent
means of access with permanent ladders and/or catwalks are present
for equipment and appliances on roofs higher than 16 feet.

E. And verify the
presence of level service platforms for appliances on roofs
with a 25 percent slope or greater.

F. Wood framing for cutting,
notching and boring that might cause a structural or safety issue.

G. Pipe penetrations in
concrete and masonry building elements to verify that they are
sleeved.

H. Piping support.

I. For connectors, tubing and
piping that might be installed in a way that exposes them to
physical damage.

J. For the potential of
flooding and evidence of past flooding that could cause mold in
ductwork or plenums.

K. Condensate drains.

II. The
inspector is not required to:

A. Inspect or test compressors, condensers, vessels, evaporators,
safety devices, pressure gauges, or control mechanisms.

B. Determine the uniformity,
temperature, flow, balance, distribution, size, capacity, BTU, or
supply adequacy of the cooling system.
B. Inspect window units,
through-wall units, or electronic air filters.
C. Operate
equipment or systems if exterior temperature is below 60 degrees
Fahrenheit or when other circumstances are not conducive to safe
operation or may damage the equipment.
D. Inspect or determine
thermostat calibration, heat anticipation or automatic setbacks or
clocks.
E. Examine electrical current, coolant fluids or gases,
or coolant leakage.

F.  Inspect tenant-owned
or maintained cooling equipment.

G. Test for mold.

6.5.7  Plumbing

I. The
inspector should inspect:

A. And verify the presence of and identify the location of the main
water shut-off valve to each building.

B. And verify the presence of
a backflow prevention device if, in the inspector's opinion, a cross
connection could occur between water distribution system and
nonpotable water or private source.
C. The water heating
equipment, including combustion air, venting, connections, energy
source supply systems, seismic bracing, and verify the presence or
absence of temperature-pressure relief valves and/or Watts 210
valves.
D. And flush a representative number of toilets.
E.
And run water in a representative number of sinks, tubs, and showers.

F. And verify that hinged
shower doors open outward from the shower and have safety glass
conformance stickers or indicators.
G. The interior water supply
including a representative number of fixtures and faucets.
H. The
drain, waste and vent systems, including a representative number
of fixtures.
I. And describe any visible fuel
storage systems.
J. The drainage sump pumps and test pumps with
accessible floats.
K. And describe the water supply, drain, waste
and main fuel shut-off valves, as well as the location of the water
main and main fuel shut-off valves.
L. And determine if the water
supply is public or private.
M. The water supply by viewing the
functional flow in several fixtures operated simultaneously and
report any deficiencies as in need of repair.
N. And report
as in need of repair deficiencies in installation and identification
of hot and cold faucets.
O. And report as in need of repair
mechanical drain-stops that are missing or do not operate if
installed in sinks, lavatories and tubs.
P. And report as in
need of repair commodes that have cracks in the ceramic material, are
improperly mounted on the floor, leak, or have tank components which
do not operate.

Q .Piping support.

II. The
inspector is not required to:

A. Determine the adequacy of the size of pipes, supplies, vents,
traps, or stacks.

B. Ignite pilot flames.
C.
Determine the size, temperature, age, life expectancy or adequacy of
the water heater.
D. Inspect interiors of flues or chimneys,
cleanouts, water softening or filtering systems, dishwashers,
interceptors, separators, sump pumps, well pumps or tanks,
safety or shut-off valves, whirlpools, swimming pools, floor drains,
lawn sprinkler systems or fire sprinkler systems.
E.
Determine the exact flow rate, volume, pressure, temperature, or
adequacy of the water supply.

F. Verify or test
anti-scald devices.
G. Determine the water quality or potability
or the reliability of the water supply or source.
H. Open sealed
plumbing access panels.
I. Inspect clothes washing machines or
their connections.
J. Operate any main, branch or fixture
valve.

K. Test shower pans, tub and
shower surrounds or enclosures for leakage.
L. Evaluate the
compliance with local or state conservation or energy standards, or
the proper design or sizing of any water, waste or venting
components, fixtures or piping.
M. Determine the effectiveness of
anti-siphon, back-flow prevention or drain-stop devices.
N.
Determine whether there are sufficient clean-outs for effective
cleaning of drains.
O. Evaluate gas, liquid propane or oil
storage tanks.
P. Inspect any private sewage waste disposal
system or component within such a system.

Q. Inspect water treatment
systems or water filters.
R. Inspect water storage tanks,
pressure pumps, ejector pumps, or bladder tanks.

S. Evaluate wait time for hot
water at fixtures, or perform testing of any kind on water
heater elements.

T. Evaluate or determine the
adequacy of combustion air.

U. Test, operate, open or
close safety controls, manual stop valves and/or temperature or
pressure relief valves.

V. Examine ancillary systems
or components, such as, but not limited to those relating to solar
water heating or hot water circulation.

W. Determine the presence or condition of
polybutylene plumbing.

6.5.8  Electrical

I. The
inspector should inspect:

A. The service drop/lateral.
B. The meter socket enclosures.

C. The service entrance
conductors and report on any noted conductor insulation or
cable sheath deterioration.

D. The means for disconnecting
the service main.

E. The service entrance
equipment and report on any noted physical damage, overheating,
or corrosion.
F. And determine the rating of the
service amperage.
G. Panelboards and overcurrent devices and
report on any noted physical damage,
overheating, corrosion, or lack of accessibility
or working space (minimum 30 inches wide, 36 inches deep, 78 inches
high in front of panel) that would hamper safe
operation, maintenance or inspection.

H. And report on any
unused circuit breaker panel openings that are not filled.

I.  And report on absent
or poor labeling.
J. The service grounding and bonding.

K. A representative number
of switches, lighting fixtures, and receptacles, including
receptacles observed and deemed to be AFCI-protected during the
inspection using an AFCI tester, where possible;  Although a
visual inspection, the removal of faceplates or other covers or
luminaires (fixtures) to identify suspected hazards is permitted.

L. And report on any noted
missing or damaged faceplates or box covers.

M.  And report on any
noted open junction boxes or open wiring splices.

N. And report on any noted
switches and receptacles that are painted.

O. And test all Ground Fault
Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) receptacles and GFCI circuit breakers
observed and deemed to be GFCIs during the inspection using a
GFCI tester where possible.

P. And report the presence of
solid conductor aluminum branch circuit wiring if readily visible.

Q. And report on any
tested GFCI receptacles in which power was not present,
polarity is incorrect, the cover is not in place, the ground
fault circuit interrupter devices are not installed properly or
do not operate properly, any evidence of arcing or
excessive heat, or where the receptacle is not grounded or is not
secured to the wall.

R. And report the absence of
smoke detectors.

S. And report on the presence of flexible cords
being improperly used  as substitutes for the fixed wiring of a
structure or running through walls, ceilings, floors, doorways,
windows, or under carpets.

II. The
inspector is not required to:

A. Insert any tool, probe or device into the main panelboard,
sub-panels, subpanels, distribution panelboards, or electrical
fixtures.
B. Operate electrical systems that are shut down.
C.
Remove panelboard cabinet covers or dead front covers if they
are not readily accessible.

D. Operate overcurrent
protection devices.
E. Operate non-accessible smoke detectors.

F. Measure or determine the amperage or voltage of the main
service equipment if not visibly labeled.
G. Inspect the fire or
alarm system and components.
H. Inspect the ancillary wiring or
remote-control devices.
I. Activate any electrical systems or
branch circuits which are not energized.
J. Operate or reset
overload devices.
K. Inspect low voltage systems, electrical
de-icing tapes, swimming pool wiring or any time-controlled devices.

L. Verify the service ground.
M. Inspect private or emergency
electrical supply sources, including but not limited to generators,
windmills, photovoltaic solar collectors, or battery or electrical
storage facility.
N. Inspect spark or lightning arrestors.

O. Inspect or test de-icing
equipment.
P. Conduct voltage drop calculations.
Q.
Determine the accuracy of labeling.

R. Inspect tenant-owned
equipment.

S. Inspect the condition of or determine the
ampacity of extension cords.

6.5.9  Fireplaces

I. The
inspector should inspect:

A.
Fireplaces, and open and close the damper doors if readily accessible
and operable.
B. Hearth extensions and other permanently
installed components.
C. And report as in need of repair
deficiencies in the lintel, hearth and material surrounding the
fireplace, including clearance from combustible materials

II. The
inspector is not required to:

A. Inspect the flue or vent system.
B. Inspect the interior
of chimneys or flues, fire doors or screens, seals or
gaskets, or mantels.

C. Determine the need for a
chimney sweep.
D. Operate gas fireplace inserts.
E. Light
pilot flames.
F. Inspect automatic fuel feed devices.
G.
Inspect combustion and/or make-up air devices.
H. Inspect
heat distribution assists whether gravity controlled or fan assisted.

I. Ignite or extinguish fires.
J. Determine draft
characteristics.
K. Move fireplace inserts, stoves, or firebox
contents.
L. Determine adequacy of draft, perform a smoke test or
dismantle or remove any fireplace component.

M. Perform an NFPA inspection.

N. Perform a Phase I fireplace
and chimney inspection.

O. Determine the appropriateness of any
installation.

6.5.10  Attic
ventilation and insulation

I. The
inspector should inspect:

A. The
insulation in unfinished spaces.
B. The ventilation of attic
spaces.
C. Mechanical ventilation systems.
D. And report on
the general absence or lack of insulation.

II. The
inspector is not required to:

A. Enter the attic or any unfinished spaces that are not readily
accessible or where entry could cause damage or pose a safety hazard
to the inspector in his or her opinion.
B. Move, touch, or
disturb insulation.
C. Move, touch or disturb vapor
retarders.
D. Break or otherwise damage the surface finish or
weather seal on or around access panels and covers.
E. Identify
the composition or exact R-value of insulation material.

F. Activate thermostatically operated fans.
G. Determine the
types of materials used in insulation or wrapping of pipes, ducts,
jackets, boilers, and wiring.

H. Determine the adequacy of ventilation.

6.5.11  Doors,
windows and interior

I. The
inspector should:

A. Open and close a representative number of doors and windows.
B.
Inspect the walls, ceilings, steps, stairways, and railings.
C.
Inspect garage doors and garage door openers.

D. Inspect interior
steps, stairs, and railings.

E. Inspect all loading docks.

F. Ride all elevators and
escalators.

G. And report as in need of repair any windows that are
obviously fogged or display other evidence of broken seals.

II. The
inspector is not required to:

A. Inspect paint, wallpaper, window treatments or finish treatments.

B. Inspect central vacuum systems.
C. Inspect safety glazing.

D. Inspect security systems or components.
E. Evaluate
the fastening of countertops, cabinets, sink tops and fixtures, or
firewall compromises.
F. Move furniture, stored items, or any
coverings like carpets or rugs in order to inspect the concealed
floor structure.
G. Move drop-ceiling tiles.
H. Inspect or
move any appliances.

I. Inspect or operate
equipment housed in the garage except as otherwise noted.
J.
Verify or certify safe operation of any auto-reverse or related
safety function of a garage door.
K. Operate or evaluate any
security bar release and opening mechanisms, whether interior or
exterior, including their compliance with local, state, or
federal standards.
L. Operate any system, appliance or component
that requires the use of special keys, codes, combinations, or
devices.
M. Operate or evaluate self-cleaning oven cycles, tilt
guards/latches, gauges, or signal lights.
N. Inspect
microwave ovens or test leakage from microwave ovens.
O. Operate
or examine any sauna, steam-jenny, kiln, toaster, ice-maker,
coffee-maker, can-opener, bread-warmer, blender, instant hot water
dispenser, or other ancillary devices.

P. Inspect elevators.
Q.
Inspect remote controls.
R. Inspect appliances.
S. Inspect
items not permanently installed.
T. Examine or operate any
above-ground, movable, freestanding, or otherwise non-permanently
installed pool/spa, recreational equipment or self-contained
equipment.
U. Come into contact with any pool or spa water in
order to determine the system structure or components.
V.
Determine the adequacy of spa jet water force or bubble effect.
W.
Determine the structural integrity or leakage of a pool or spa.

X. Determine combustibility or
flammability.

Y. Inspect tenant-owned equipment or personal property.

6.5.12 
Life-safety

I. The
inspector should:

A. Inspect fire access roads and report on any obstructions or
overhead wires lower than 13 feet 6 inches.

B. Inspect the address or
street number to determine that it is visible from the street
with numbers in contrast to their background.

C. Inspect and determine that
a 3-foot clear space exists around the circumference of fire
hydrants.

D. Verify that hinged shower
doors open outward from the shower and have safety glass conformance
stickers or indicators.

E. Inspect to determine that
the storage of flammable and combustible materials are orderly,
separated from heaters by distance or shielding so that ignition
cannot occur, and not stored in exits, boiler rooms, mechanical
rooms, or electrical equipment rooms.

F. Inspect to determine that a
"No Smoking" sign is posted in areas where flammable or
combustible material is stored, dispensed, or used.

G. Inspect for
the presence of fire alarm systems.

H. Inspect for alarm
panel accessibility.

I. Inspect for
the presence of portable extinguishers and determine that they
are located in conspicuous and readily available locations
immediately available for use and not obstructed or obscured from
view.

J. Inspect to determine that a
portable fire extinguisher exists within a 30-foot travel distance of
commercial-type cooking equipment that uses cooking oil or animal
fat.

K. Inspect to determine
that manual actuation devices for commercial cooking
appliances exist near the means of egress from the cooking
area, 42-48 inches above the floor, 10-20 feet away, and clearly
identifying the hazards protected.

L. Inspect to determine that
the maximum travel distance to a fire extinguisher is 75 feet.

M. Inspect for
the presence of sprinkler systems and determine if they were
ever painted other than at the factory.

N. Inspect for
the presence of emergency lighting systems.

O. Inspect for exit signs
at all exits and inspect for independent power sources such as
batteries.

P. Inspect for
the presence of directional signs where exit location is not
obvious.

Q. Inspect for
the presence of signs over lockable exit doors stating "This
Door Must Remain Unlocked During Business Hours."

R. Inspect for
penetrations in any walls or ceilings that separate the exit
corridors and/or stairwells from the rest of the building.

S. Inspect for fire
separation doors that appear to have been blocked or wedged open or
that do not automatically close and latch.

T. Inspect exit
stairwell handrails.

U. Inspect for exit trip
hazards.

V. Inspect for the presence
of at least two exits to outside or one exit that has a maximum
travel distance of 75 feet.

W. Inspect exit doorways to
determine that they are not less than 32 inches in clear width.

X. Inspect to determine that
the exit doors were not locked from the inside, chained, bolted,
barred, latched or otherwise rendered unusable at the time of the
inspection.

Y. Inspect to determine
that the exit doors swing open in the direction of egress travel.

Z. Inspect the storage at the time of the
inspections to determine if it is potentially obstructing access
to fire hydrants, fire extinguishers, alarm panels, or electric
panelboards, or if it is obstructing aisles, corridors,
stairways or exit doors, or if it is within 18 inches of sprinkler
heads or if it is within 3 feet of heat generating appliances or
electrical panelboards at the time of the inspection.

II. The
inspector is not required to:

A. Test alarm systems or determine if alarms
systems have been tested.

B. Inspect or test heat
detectors, fire suppression systems, or sprinkler systems.

C. Determine
combustibility or flammability of materials or storage.

D. Determine the adequate
number of fire extinguishers needed or their ratings.

E. Test or inspect fire
extinguishers, their pressure, or for the presence of
extinguisher inspection tags and/or tamper seals.

F. Inspect or test fire
pumps or Fire Department connections.

G. Inspect or test
cooking equipment suppression systems.

H. Determine the
operational time of emergency lighting or exist signs.

I. Inspect for proper occupant
load signs.

J. Determine fire ratings of
walls, ceilings, doors, etc.

K. Inspect, test, or determine
the adequacy of fire escapes or ladders.

L. Inspect Fire
Department lock boxes or keys.

M. Determine flame resistance
of curtains or draperies.

N. Inspect parking
and/or outdoor lighting.

O. Inspect for
unauthorized entry and/or crime issues.

P. Inspect or test
security systems.

Q. Inspect for pet or
livestock safety issues.

R. Inspect for unsafe
candle use or decoration hazards

S. Inspect or test
emergency generators

T. Test kitchen
equipment, appliances, or hoods.

U. Verfiy that elevator keys exist or that they work
properly.

6.5.13 
Cooking area

I. The
inspector should:

A. Verify that all smoke or grease-laden vapor producing cooking
equipment such as deep-fat fryers, ranges, griddles, broilers, and
woks, is equipped with an exhaust system.

B. Inspect exhaust
systems interior surface cleaning and inspection accessibility.

C. Inspect for grease
buildup.

D. Verify that hoods are
made of steel or stainless steel.

E. Verify that visible
grease filters are arranged so that all exhaust air passes through
the filters.

F. Verify that
visible sections of exhaust ducts are not interconnected with
any other ventilation system.

G. Verify that visual sections
of exhaust ducts are installed without dips or traps that might
collect residue.

H. Verify that exhaust
ducts do not appear to pass through fire walls.

I. Try to verify that exhaust
ducts lead directly to the exterior of the building.

J. Try to verify that exterior
exhaust outlets do not discharge into walkways or create a
nuisance in the opinion of the inspector.

K. Inspect to determine that a
portable fire extinguisher exists within a 30-foot travel distance of
commercial-type cooking equipment that uses cooking oil or animal
fat.

L. Inspect to determine that manual actuation
devices for commercial cooking appliances exist near the
means of egress from the cooking area, 42-48 inches above the floor,
10-20 feet away, and clearly identifying the hazards protected.

II. The
inspector is not required to:

A. Determine proper clearances.

B. Determine proper hood size
or position.

C. Test hoods.

D. Test exhaust fans, test
dampers, or measure airflow.

E. Test fire extinguishers,
fire-extinguishing equipment or fusible links.

F. Test kitchen
equipment, appliances, hoods or their gauges.

G. Inspect or test grease
removal devices, drip trays or grease filters.

H. Inspect or test air
pollution control devices or fume incinerators.

I. Inspect or test kitchen
refrigeration.

J. Inspect for fuel storage
issues.

K. Inspect, test, or determine
anything regarding food safety.

L. Issue an opinion regarding cooking operating
procedures.

7.  Report

7.1  Format

The report must be in writing.  This standard does not
require any one particular format.  It is InterNACHI's
opinion that the commercial inspection industry and consumer
clients are best served when inspectors are free to compete through
report generation innovation.

7.2  Date

The report should be dated on the first page of the report.

7.3  Inspection
firm information

The report should include the name and contact information of the
inspection firm on the first or second page.

7.4  Property address

The report should include the address of the property inspected or a
description of the real estate sufficient for identification on the
first or second page.

7.5  Total number of pages

The report should indicate the total number of pages and attachments
on the first page of the report. 

7.6  Brevity

Reports should be concise, to the point, and avoid the inclusion of
large amounts of pre-printed material.

7.7  Legibility

Reports should be typed or handwritten clearly.

7.8  Opinions of shutdown
systems

The inspector should still try to render an opinion of the condition
of systems even if they were shutdown or were not
operational at the time of the walk-through survey.

7.9  Obsolescence

The client should only rely on the inspection report at the
point in time that the inspector's observations were being made
and research was being conducted.  The client should deem
the report as obsolete to some extent, even while it
is being prepared.

7.10  Site-specific

The client should understand that an inspection performed in
accordance with this standard only relates to the observations made
and research conducted.  Consequently this standard does not
address issues such as business operations at the subject
property, deed encumbrances, neighborhood conditions, etc.

7.11  Multiple buildings

An inspection report produced in accordance with this standard
may encompass more than one building within a single report.

7.12  Cost to remedy

The inspector is not required to provide repair estimates or opinions
of costs to remedy.  The inspector may offer opinions about such
costs as a courtesy but the offering of these opinions is
outside the scope of a commercial inspection.

8.  Limitations,
Exceptions and Exclusions

8.1. Limitations:

I. An inspection is not technically exhaustive.
II. An inspection
will not identify concealed or latent defects.
III. An inspection
will not deal with aesthetic concerns or what could be deemed matters
of taste, cosmetic defects, etc.
IV. An inspection will not
determine the suitability of the property for any use.
V. An
inspection does not determine the market value of the property or its
marketability.

VI. An inspection does not
determine the insurability of the property.
VII. An inspection
does not determine the advisability or inadvisability of the purchase
of the inspected property.

VIII. An inspection does not
determine the life expectancy of the property or any components or
systems therein.

IX. An inspection does not include items not permanently
installed.
X. These Standards of Practice apply only to
commercial properties.

8.2. Exclusions:

I. The
inspectors are not required to determine:

A. Property boundary lines or encroachments.
B. The condition of
any component or system that is not readily accessible.
C. The
service life expectancy of any component or system.
D. The size,
capacity, BTU, performance, or efficiency of any component or system.

E. The cause or reason of any condition.
F. The cause of the
need for repair or replacement of any system or component.
G.
Future conditions.
H. The compliance with codes or
regulations.
I. The presence of evidence of rodents, animals
or insects.
J. The presence of mold, mildew or fungus.
K. The
presence of air-borne hazards.
L. The presence of birds.
M.
The presence of other flora or fauna.
N. The air quality.
O.
The presence of asbestos.
P. The presence of
environmental hazards.
Q. The presence of electro-magnetic
fields.
R. The presence of hazardous materials including, but not
limited to, the presence of lead in paint.
S. Any hazardous waste
conditions.
T. Any manufacturer's recalls or conformance with
manufacturer's installation or any information included for consumer
protection purposes.
U. Operating costs of systems.
V.
Replacement or repair cost estimates.
W. The acoustical
properties of any systems.
X. Estimates of the cost of operating
any given system.

Y. Resistance to wind,
hurricanes, tornados, earthquakes or seismic activities.

Z. Geological conditions or
soil stability.

BB. Americans with Disabilities Act compliance.

II. The
inspectors are not required to operate:

A. Any
system that is shut down.
B. Any system that does not function
properly.
C. Or evaluate low voltage electrical systems such as,
but not limited to:

1. Phone
   lines.
   

   
   

2. Cable
   lines. 
   

   
   

3. Antennae. 
   

   
   

4. Lights. 
   

   
   

5. Remote controls.
   

   
   

D. Any system that does not turn on with the use of normal operating
controls.
E. Any shut off valves or manual stop valves.
F.
Any electrical disconnect or over current protection devices.
G.
Any alarm systems.
H. Moisture meters, gas detectors or similar
equipment.

I. Sprinkler or fire suppression systems.

III.
The inspectors are not required to:

A. move
any personal items or other obstructions, such as, but not limited
to:

1.
throw rugs.
2. furniture.
3. floor or wall coverings.
4.
ceiling tiles
5. window coverings.
6. equipment.
7.
plants.
8. ice.
9. debris.
10. snow.
11. water.
12.
dirt.
13. foliage.
14. pets.

B. Dismantle, open, or uncover any system or component.
C. Enter
or access any area which may, in the opinion of the inspector, be
unsafe.
D. Enter crawlspaces or other areas that are unsafe or
not readily accessible.
E. Inspect or determine the presence
of underground items such as, but not limited to, underground storage
tanks, whether abandoned or actively used.
F. Do anything which,
in the inspector's opinion, is likely to be unsafe or dangerous to
the inspector or others or damage property, such as, but not limited
to, walking on roof surfaces, climbing ladders, entering attic spaces
or interacting with pets or livestock. 
G. Inspect
decorative items.
H. Inspect common elements or areas in
multi-unit housing.
I. Inspect intercoms, speaker systems,
radio-controlled, security devices or lawn irrigation systems. J.
Offer guarantees or warranties.
K. Offer or perform any
engineering services.
L. Offer or perform any trade or
professional service other than commercial property inspection.

M. Research the history of the property, report on its potential
for alteration, modification, extendibility, or its suitability for a
specific or proposed use for occupancy.
N. Determine the age of
construction or installation of any system structure, or component of
a building, or differentiate between original construction and
subsequent additions, improvements, renovations or replacements
thereto.
O. Determine the insurability of a property.

P. Perform or offer Phase
1 environmental audits.

Q. Inspect or report on any system or component
which is not included in these standards.

9.  Ethics

Inspectors performing inspections in accordance to this standard must
maintain a high level of  business ethics.

9.1  Duty to client

9.1.1  The inspector shall substantially follow this
standard unless the scope of work indicates otherwise.

9.1.2  The inspector
shall not engage in any practices that could be damaging to
the client or bring discredit to the inspection industry.

9.1.3  The inspector
shall be fair, honest, impartial, and act in good faith in dealing
with the client.

9.1.4 
The inspector shall not discriminate on the basis of
race, color, religion, sex, national origin, familial status, or
handicap and shall comply with all federal, state and local laws
concerning discrimination.

9.1.5  The inspector
member shall be truthful regarding his/her services and
qualifications.

9.1.6  The inspector
shall have no undisclosed conflict of interest with the client, nor
shall the inspector accept or offer any undisclosed commissions,
rebates, profits or other benefit, nor shall the inspector accept
or offer any disclosed or undisclosed commissions, rebates, profits
or other benefit from real estate agents, brokers or any third
parties having financial interest in the sale of the property
nor shall the inspector offer or provide any disclosed or
undisclosed financial compensation directly or indirectly to any
real estate agent, real estate broker or real estate company for
referrals or for inclusion on lists of preferred and/or
affiliated inspectors or inspection companies.

9.1.7  The inspector
shall not communicate any information about an inspection to anyone
except the client without the prior written consent of the client,
except in cases when the information may affect the safety of others
or violates a law or statute.

9.1.8  The inspector
shall always act in the interest of the client, unless doing so
violates a law or statute.

9.1.9  The
inspector shall use a written Scope of Work agreement that
specifies the services to be performed, the limitations of services
and fees.

9.1.10  The inspector
shall comply with all government rules and licensing requirements in
the jurisdiction where he/she conducts business.

9.1.11  The inspector
shall not perform or offer to perform, for an additional fee, any
repairs or associated services to the structure for which
the inspector or inspector's company has prepared a commercial
inspection report, for a period of 12 months. This provision shall
not include services to components and/or systems which are not
included in this standard.

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