MULTI-FAMILY BUILDING INSPECTIONS

Inspecting multi-family buildings is more complex than inspecting a single-family home. Inspectors need to be aware of many different issues, such as fire safety, escape routes, and handicap accessibility. With so much going on in these types of buildings, the inspector must know what they’re doing before going into the building for a multi unit inspection. 

Cincinnati Home Inspections, as trusted and professional inspection company offers a variety of services tailored to meet your needs. Whether you are a co-op, condo owner, property manager or investor, we can help you meet your goals for buying and maintaining your investment. Our inspectors have the knowledge to inspect these buildings from top to bottom.

What is a Multi-Family Building?

Multi-family refers to any structure that contains two or more separate units. The term can refer to apartments, condos, duplexes, triplexes and other similar types of homes. They come in various shapes and sizes – some condos might look like large single-family homes with hundreds of units. Others will be smaller complexes with only 20 or so units inside them. Cincinnati Home Inspections has experience inspecting both small and large apartment complexes and all different types of home property layouts and design styles.

What is a Condo?

Condominiums are homes that, as the name implies, are divided into many units – often 100 or more – where each individual owner has bought one whole team and then pays a monthly fee to use other common areas of the building. In this scheme, there is no “land” because you actually own your apartment itself as well as a percentage interest in all other parts of the building. Condos can be found in many different shapes and sizes, from those with only two units to those with nearly 200 living spaces inside them! Many people choose condos as their primary residence due to their affordability and ease of buying into a complex.

Why do I Need a Professional Cincinnati Home Inspection?

Condominiums can be found in many different shapes and sizes, ranging from those with just two units to those with nearly 200 living spaces inside of them. Cincinnati Home Inspections has experience inspecting both small and large apartment complexes and all different types of home layouts and design styles.

The sheer size of multi-family buildings means there’s more for your inspector to look at than the average house. Each unit might have its own appliances, heating/cooling systems, fire safety components, etc., so each one must be properly inspected before you buy a unit. Even if everything looks great on paper or online, without a thorough multi unit inspection by a professional building inspector, your investment might not be worth the money after all!

Who Needs a Multi-Family Inspection?

Cincinnati Home Inspections can help anyone considering buying, investing or renting in these types of buildings. Whether you are a co-op, condo owner, property manager or investor, we can help you meet your goals for buying and maintaining your investment. Our inspectors have the knowledge to inspect these buildings from top to bottom.

The smallest multi-family building we’ve inspected was a two-unit condo, and the largest had nearly 200 living units inside. We have experience inspecting both small and large apartment complexes and all different types of home layouts and design styles.

What is the Process for a Multi-Family Inspection?

Our inspectors follow a comprehensive multifamily property process that gives you peace of mind knowing your investment is in safe hands:

Pre-Inspection Meeting: Our inspector will meet with you before the multi unit inspection to go over any concerns or questions you may have about their findings during their multi unit inspections.

Building Orientation: The property manager, owner, board president or property owner will give our inspector a tour of the entire facility so they can familiarize themselves with everything inside it.

Roof Inspection: All roofs will be walked and inspected to check for damage, leaks or signs of age.

Exterior Wall & Structure Inspection: The foundation, exterior walls and structure will be closely inspected from the ground to ensure no damages or structural issues with the building.

Fireplace Inspection: Chimneys and fireplaces will be checked for cleanliness and any damage that could pose a threat to the unit.

Stove/Oven/Cooktop Ductless & Exhaust System Inspection – Stoves, ovens, cooktops, and exhaust ductless systems (such as microwaves) will be inspected for proper ventilation so they can ventilate appropriately without compromising your indoor air quality.

Electrical Systems Inspection: The multi family inspection will include a thorough analysis of the electrical systems and components, including switches, outlets, circuit breakers and wiring.

Plumbing System Inspection: The plumbing system will be closely inspected for leaks and proper drainage, so any water inside the building doesn’t become a hazard.

Interior Inspection: All internal components such as appliances, cabinetry, heating/cooling systems and bathrooms will be inspected to check for proper maintenance and typical wear-and-tear through regular use.

Exterior Inspection: A walk around the exterior of the building is taken to look for any signs of damage or deterioration that could affect its structural integrity or pose a threat to your health and safety living it.

Grounds & Common Areas Inspection: The grounds will be inspected for proper drainage and proper maintenance. Any repairs that need to be made based on this multi unit inspection will be recommended to the property owner or manager to address them directly with a contractor of their choice.

Our inspector will give you a written detailed reports about all their findings, whether positive or negative. You will also receive a CD containing digital pictures of each item along with a detailed synopsis of what was found, why it’s important and how it could affect your health and safety, as well as any potential impact on the value of your unit.

Common issues that are found during an Multi family Properties inspection

Several common issues are typically found during a multi unit inspections. Some of the most common items include:

  • Roof leaks, which can damage multiple units if not addressed Aged plumbing systems, including corroding pipes or lead pipes
  • Leaking roofs or gutters that pour water into ceilings or down walls Termite infestations which can cause structural damage to your unit
  • Electrical issues, which could pose a danger to tenants Unsafe appliances including fireplaces, stoves and ovens
  • No Carbon Monoxide detectors in each unit
  • Loose handrails on stairwells Missing smoke detectors Poorly maintained landscaping.
  • Mold growth due to improper ventilation
  • Damp basements and crawl spaces with standing water
  • Gutter or downspout problems that funnel water into exterior walls

 

At the end of each multi unit inspections, you will receive a clear report with detailed explanations of all issues found, along with any recommendations for repairs or replacements.

Call Us Today for Multifamily Property Inspection!

Our property inspection services are designed to help Cincinnati homeowners make an informed decision about the condition of their homes. We’re here for you, and we hope that our service has been helpful in your search for a reliable, trustworthy home inspector. If you need any more information or would like to schedule one of our inspections, please feel free to contact us at (123) 456-7890.

You can also visit our website at www.cincinnatihomeinspections.com for more information about what we do and how we can help you!