Building Inspection Checklist Templates

Ensure compliance with building codes, zoning regulations, and safety standards with building inspection checklists.

What is Building Inspection?

A building inspection verifies if a structure complies with building codes and minimum safety standards. Licensed inspectors run a visual check to see if there are any defective components or damaged areas in the building. Conducting inspections ensures that new and remodeled structures are safe and sturdy before opening to the public.

Why is it Important?

Building inspections offer plenty of advantages for property owners and buyers alike.

First, it provides property owners with a thorough assessment of their building. Inspectors check for any structural defects that can endanger the occupants in the building. Detecting these faults early on helps owners resolve them immediately.

Moreover, inspections guarantee that buildings meet essential health, safety, and quality standards. It ensures that buildings have structural integrity based on prescribed building codes. Following these regulations also shows the owner’s commitment to safety and quality.

On the buyer’s side, building inspections can help them determine the quality of the building that they plan to buy. They receive assurance that they’re making the right choice when purchasing a building.

Types of Building Inspections

Building inspections come in two different kinds: general and specialized. Learn more about their differences in this section.

General Building Inspections

This type of inspection involves evaluating the overall structure and quality of the property. Inspectors review the facilities, identify signs of deterioration, and provide recommendations based on the location’s building codes and regulations.

General building inspections include the following types:

Specialized Building Inspections

On the other hand, specialized inspections probe into specific aspects of the property. Inspectors run checks to find if these facilities follow the mandated requirements.

Specialized building inspections consist of the following types:

Things to Include in a Builder’s Inspection Checklist

A building inspection checklist assists inspectors and property owners in evaluating a facility’s condition. This section outlines the essential elements of this checklist.

Building Details

The checklist starts with the details about the building. This element helps supervisors and managers easily identify the structure in the inspection report.

It typically consists of the following items:

  • Building ID number (if any)
  • Building site/unit
  • Building location
  • Name of inspector
  • Date of inspection

Safety and Quality Standards

Incorporating building standards is a must in any building inspection checklist. It must align with building codes and regulations set by various governing bodies.

These rules and regulations vary from one country to another. Some might have state, federal, and international standards that buildings must follow. Some examples include the following:

Areas in the Building

Inspectors and property owners have to check every part of the building during inspections. Having a handy digital checklist streamlines this process and makes sure they don’t miss any spots.

Here’s a list of the necessary places to include in a building inspection checklist:

  • Building interior (floors, walls, aisles, halls, stairs, verandas, etc.)
  • Building exterior (stairs, pathways, walls, etc.)
  • Under-floor space, foundations, and stumps
  • Roofing (exterior, guttering, space)
  • Means of egress (passageways, exits, etc.)
  • Car and garage spaces
  • Fencing, driveways, steps, paths, etc.

Utility Services

Aside from this, it’s also crucial to assess the quality of utility services inside the building. After all, a well-functioning structure won’t work without electricity, water, ventilation, and safety equipment. Some inspectors offer services specifically for these vital areas.

This element consists of the following items:

  • Electrical systems
  • Plumbing systems (piping, wastewater disposal, drainages, etc.)
  • Mechanical systems (HVAC systems, appliances, etc.)
  • Fire safety, prevention, and protection mechanisms
  • Pest control mechanisms

Sign-Offs for Building Inspection Report

Upon finishing the inspection, inspectors must attach their signature and full name at the end of the report. It indicates who the inspector is and verifies that the process is complete. The building inspection report should contain photos of the property, its exact address or location, as well as the contact details of the inspector. This portion can also include the inspector’s judgment about the building and recommendations for repair, replacement, or maintenance.

Leizel Estrellas
Article by

Leizel Estrellas

SafetyCulture Content Specialist
Leizel Estrellas is a content writer and researcher for SafetyCulture. Her academic and professional training as a researcher allows her to write meaningful articles that create a lasting impact. As a content specialist, she strives to promote a culture of safety in the workplace through accessible and reader-friendly content. With her high-quality work, she is keen on helping businesses across industries identify issues and opportunities to improve every day.

Explore more templates

Commercial Building Inspection Checklist Template
This checklist assists property owners and inspectors in evaluating various commercial buildings. Customize this checklist according to your business needs and perform efficient inspections on the go. Keep your commercial buildings in good condition with this checklist.
Residential Building Inspection Checklist Template
Use this checklist to inspect condominiums, apartments, and other residential buildings. Look for signs of damage around the house, take photo evidence, and report issues when you see them. Seamlessly run a visual check of the building from the inside out with a mobile checklist.
Pest Control Inspection Checklist Template
Inspectors can use this checklist to spot signs of pest activity in properties. Conduct visual inspections, take photos of infested areas, and record issues whenever, wherever. Streamline pest control operations with this checklist.
Building Maintenance Checklist Template
Facility maintenance teams can use this checklist to enforce preventative maintenance protocols in their workplace. Run regular maintenance checks on all areas inside the building and promptly respond to issues. Ensure that your building is in good condition with this checklist.