 What is a building inspection?
How much does a building inspection cost?
Are inspections by engineers more expensive than other building inspections?
Do you inspect newly built facilities?
Will I be able to attend the inspection?
Who gets a copy of the building inspection report?
How quickly can I get my report?
Is the building inspection industry regulated?
How can I find a truly qualified building inspector?
How do I find an engineer for a building inspection?
What qualifications do licensed Professional Engineers have?
Do you have insurance?
What is a building inspection?
There is no universally agreed-upon definition of a
building inspection. However, a Criterium Engineers building inspection is
a Professional Engineer's opinion of the current condition and future
performance of the building's major systems (including the structure)
based on visual evidence. The building inspection is performed in
accordance with the standards of the National Academy of Building Inspection
Engineers (NABIE).
How much does a building inspection cost?
Fees are determined by the size, age, value, location, and complexity of the building, and the service level you request. They are set by each individual Criterium office.
Are inspections by engineers more expensive than other building inspections?
Not always, but our fees may be higher in some cases. Many items which other companies either exclude or charge extra for are included in our standard report. Since only Professional Engineers can legally tell you about the structural integrity of a building, you won't have to hire anyone else for this important service.
Do you inspect newly built facilities?
Yes. Any building you buy, whether antique or newly built, is a major investment. It is in your best interest to know everything you can about the facility before you buy it.
Will I be able to attend the inspection?
Yes. We encourage our clients to come along on the inspection. It's the best way to learn about the building. It's also the perfect time to ask the engineer questions about specific concerns you may have. Our report will then address these specific concerns along with the items we normally cover.
Who gets a copy of the building inspection report?
Your report is confidential and will only be given to other parties with your written consent.
How quickly can I get my report?
Reports typically are completed within 2 to 3 working days of the inspection. Because we do not provide abbreviated reports or simple checklists as many companies do, you will not receive the report at the end of the inspection. Although we may cover verbally what we have observed with you, we do not feel an on-site check list report is of much value to you. Our written report contains the full benefit of our deliberation on site and after the inspection.
Is the building inspection industry regulated?
Along with appraisals and title searches, building inspections are becoming a standard part of the facility buying process. Only registered professional engineers or registered architects can perform inspection work and render a structural evaluation on the structural components of a building in Tennessee. How can I find a truly qualified building inspector?
One answer is to hire a licensed Professional Engineer. P.E.s are qualified to evaluate all elements of the building and render their professional opinion as to the condition and soundness of that building. Since we are regulated and licensed by the State of Tennessee, our accountability and professionalism are ensured. By law, only licensed Professional Engineers can complete a structural inspection and render an opinion and proposed design.
How do I find an engineer for a building inspection?
- The first step is to look for the P.E. designation after the inspector's name. Only licensed Professional Engineers may use that designation. It may be displayed in corporate brochures, on business cards, and/or in their yellow pages advertisement.
- Ask to see the engineer's license, stamp, or seal. Many groups have created seals that are designed to look like professional seals. Be sure to read it carefully. It should be issued by the state and contain a license number.
- Inquire as to the engineer's experience. He or she should have a background in buildings-related services such as inspections, facilities management or design.
- As with any service you intend to purchase, check references. Qualified engineers will be happy to provide you with a list of clients.
- Avoid conflicts of interest. An engineer who recently inspected a building for another client will probably refuse to inspect it for you, unless he or she has permission from the previous client. The inspection report is provided to you in confidence.
- There are also organizations that represent
Professional Engineers, such as the National Academy of Building Inspection Engineers
(NABIE). You can visit their Web site at www.nabie.org.
What qualifications do licensed Professional Engineers have?
Engineers are licensed by the state in which they practice. At a minimum, they have completed an accredited, degreed engineering program, have worked for 4 years under the direction of other engineers, and have passed a comprehensive 2-day, 16 hour, written exam. They are bound by a code of ethics and state law to practice only in areas where they are qualified.
Do you have insurance?
All Criterium Engineers offices maintain comprehensive professional liability insurance with nationally recognized firms. Professional liability insurance is different from building inspector's insurance and is only available to Professional Engineers and Professional Architects. But the most important quality is our accountability as Professional Engineers. We stand behind our work and are legally and ethically accountable to you.
 |
