The basics are there, but you wouldn’t build a skyscraper on a house foundation.
Sure, a few very small commercial jobs are basically home inspections. The condo office complex would be an example. As size and complexity change, home inspection training isn’t sufficient to do the job.
The roof is usually the single most expensive component. It may be a built-up roof (BUR) aka the hot tar and gravel system, a metal panel roof system, a two-ply modified bitumen torch down rubber roof system, a single ply membrane (TPO, EPDM, or PVC system), or a spray polyurethane foam-based system. Inspectors do not learn how to properly inspect these systems by inspecting residential roofs. The only professional training and certification for commercial roofing that I am aware of is the HAAG Engineering certification. A to Z Inspections has this certification.
Chillers, fire suppression systems, structural steel/I-beams, huge electrical panels, cranes, walk-in freezers, well and septic, large swimming pools, elevators—these areas are not part of the standard experience or training for home inspectors. There is a vast difference in knowledge, experience, and education needed to properly perform a commercial property inspection. All inspectors hired by A to Z have the four-hour on-line “Commercial Inspector Certification” from InterNACHI, but that is wholly insufficient for serious commercial inspections.
A to Z Inspections as a serious, competent commercial property inspection company brings to the job:
Property Condition Assessment (ASTM-E2018) certification
HAAG Engineering certification for commercial roofing
Construction Degree from OSU
EPA Certification in Waste Water Treatment Systems
Thermography Certification
Experience
A to Z has inspected office buildings, shopping centers, apartment
complexes, refrigerated warehouses, mini-storage facilities, build-outs, car dealerships, metal bus barns, manufacturing plants, distributions centers, and multi-story hotels.
Look for these three things when securing a commercial inspection:
Credentials – Certifications, training, degrees
Experience with commercial inspections
Ability and willingness to bring in experts – elevator company, commercial electrician, large generator technician, commercial roofer, fire suppression systems company, plumber