Commercial roofing inspections for strata properties and residential roof inspections share several similarities.. They follow the same assessment process, but the stakes are just higher for commercial strata properties because they house more people than a single household. This means that any damage to the roof could potentially affect many and more people.
According to British Columbia’s Building Permits Monthly Data for July 2024, there have been 447, 289 building permits submitted for commercial buildings. Aside from these property owners ensuring the quality of the roofs, they are legally required to conduct inspections.
Vancouver roofers conduct quite a lot of inspections due to the rainy weather that they have, which is the reason why many roofing companies in Vancouver offer roof inspections as one of their main services.
What you need to know before Roof Inspections
In searching for roof inspector among credible roofing contractors in Vancouver, it is best to gather and collect quotes from different roofing companies in Vancouver. This way, you can determine which one is the best roofing company for you.
Experienced: when searching for a qualified inspector, it’s important to seek candidates with a background in commercial roofing and strata management. While there are many new and reputable roofing companies and inspectors available, choosing those with more experience can provide you with greater peace of mind. Vancouver contractors who have worked with many different roofing companies are also considered as experienced because of the different job sites and buildings that they are exposed to.
Credentials: What adds credibility to the experience of a roofing company or roof inspector? Their licenses, insurance, and certifications. Working with professionals who can provide documents supporting their claims of expertise is a good sign that you are partnering with a reliable and trustworthy team.
Vancouver roofers often have certifications and training from popular roofing material brands, adding value to their skills.
Reputation: To top off the screening of the candidates, it is also important to include and check previous customer feedback on their etiquette, skills, character, and output.
Roofing contractors in Vancouver often collaborate with various companies, including roofing, construction, and home builders. Their experience working with reputable and professional firms adds to their positive reputation.
Importance of Commercial Strata Roof Inspections
Safety: This is the main reason why both local and national laws require thorough inspections of commercial buildings’ roofs: to keep everyone, whether workers or civilians, safe from accidents and injuries.
Proper Maintenance: Commercial buildings are typically large structures designed for business or professional purposes, which also means wide roofs. Regular roof inspections can identify issues that could later arise, preventing them from turning into costly repairs or replacements. This is important because any roof problem could lead to significantly higher repair costs.
Value: In the commercial industry, competition is intense. Many properties are marketed to potential customers using various approaches, and you don’t want to be left behind. Roof inspections add value to a property, as they assure potential clients that they are working with a team that prioritizes their needs and takes care of their investments.
Legally Required: Vancouver contractors are in high demand for roof inspections due to property owners’ requirements. Certain laws require property owners to conduct roof inspections to ensure the safety of everyone and everything on the property.
What Inspectors Look For During an Inspection
These roofing issues can become damages if not immediately addressed. Roofers look for these problems to ensure the roof’s longevity and quality.
Any sign of water: Inspectors will look for evidence of water damage, such as puddles, pools, stains, and leaks where rainwater could enter, both on the roof and inside the building.
This is the number one assignment for Vancouver roofers given that cities like them along with Maple Ridge and Abbotsford, are frequently raining.
Roofing Material: Following an evaluation for water damage, inspectors will examine the roofing material’s condition, searching for any cracks, blisters, missing sections, or indications of deterioration, wear, and sagging.
Flashings and Seals: Rainwater can enter a building not only through the roof itself but also through flashings and seals around roofing components like vents, skylights, and chimneys. It’s crucial to remember this item, as the inspection would be incomplete otherwise.
Debris in Gutters and Downspouts: Inspectors must also verify that the drainage system is functioning properly and is clear of debris or obstructions that could cause water to overflow.
For Strata roofs
While roofing contractors, companies, and roofers play a crucial role in roofing inspections, Strata Corporations also have important responsibilities. In addition to finding the best roofing company, Strata Corporations must: (1) schedule regular annual inspections to proactively address roofing needs, (2) ensure adequate funding is available to cover roofing costs, and (3) maintain insurance coverage to protect against roof damage or accidents.
All about Commercial roofing inspections
To recap the main points discussed in this extensive blog, please refer to the following summary.
Key Points To Remember In Choosing a Qualified Inspector
- Experienced roofing contractor
- Credible with supporting documents
- Has good reputation
Importance of Commercial Strata Roof Inspections
- Safety
- Proper Maintenance
- Value
- Legally Required
Roof Issues to Look Out For
- Signs of Water
- Damaged Roofing Material
- Flashings and Seals
- Debris in Gutters and Downspouts
