Published · By Antoine Thompson, President and Commercial Inspector
What is an annual property maintenance inspection?
An annual maintenance inspection is a yearly visual review of readily accessible commercial building systems and components. It identifies observed maintenance concerns and supports repair planning. Onward offers this inspection service to commercial owners and property managers across Metro Atlanta; it does not include hands-on repairs or equipment servicing.
Which areas should owners review?
- Roof coverings, flashing, and drainage where safely accessible
- Exterior walls, doors, windows, and visible structural components
- Parking lot and paving, walkways, site drainage, and common areas
- Readily accessible HVAC, electrical, and plumbing systems
- Visible leaks, moisture, deterioration, and deferred maintenance
How can last year's report help?
Share your prior findings and repair records. Within the agreed scope, a new inspection can document observable conditions and help you update immediate, near-term, and monitoring priorities. Records make it easier to discuss what was corrected and which items still need attention.
Does this replace specialist maintenance?
No. A yearly condition review complements routine HVAC servicing, roof maintenance, and paving work. It does not replace fire, elevator, code, or other required safety inspections. Equipment servicing frequency depends on manufacturer requirements, operating conditions, and qualified specialist advice.
When should a property manager schedule it?
Schedule once a year, ideally before preparing maintenance and capital improvement budgets. Request a written scope and coordinate access with tenants. Use the resulting photos and recommendations to obtain contractor estimates and plan follow-up work—not as a guarantee that no other defects exist.
Put the next step in writing
Scope note: Our inspections are visual, non-invasive assessments of readily accessible systems and components. They do not replace the advice of licensed engineers, attorneys, environmental consultants, or other specialists where needed.