Keep the building assessment separate from business operations
When a property supports an operating practice or business, the transaction may include equipment, improvements, and responsibilities beyond the building itself. Clarify those boundaries before comparing proposals.
Map shared and dedicated systems
List which equipment serves a single suite and which serves the whole property. Confirm access to mechanical and electrical rooms and obtain available maintenance records.
Review roof and water-entry history
Request leak reports, roof repair invoices, drain-maintenance records, and information about affected interiors. We document observable conditions and recommend follow-up where concealed extent or cause remains uncertain.
Bring lender instructions early
If financing calls for a PCA, provide the actual report requirements, planning period, and deadline. A standard inspection, an ASTM-scoped PCA, and a Phase I environmental assessment are different assignments.