Are there varying certifications for commercial inspectors?

It’s tempting to think that all inspectors are the same, and that the skillset of a home inspector is the same as those of a commercial inspector. Not true! A commercial inspector must have a different level of knowledge than a home inspector. This is because commercial properties are more complex and have more regulations than residential properties. 

Home Inspectors in Oklahoma must do at least 90 hours of pre-license training through a home inspection training program (either online or in a classroom) at an approved home inspection school. After this, the applicant must submit an application, and upon approval, take the state exam. But what about commercial inspectors? Well, the truth is, there is no separate process for commercial inspectors. A home inspector can advertise themselves as a commercial inspector, and the state exam and training program don’t ask specific questions about commercial buildings. 

So that’s why certification is so important, to make sure your inspector really knows what they’re doing when it comes to commercial properties. If your inspector is certified to do commercial properties, then you know they have the necessary technical skill and experience to give you the best possible information on your property. 

What kind of certification does a commercial inspector need?

First, look into if the inspector you’re considering has done commercial inspections before. What is their track record? Do they work for a home inspection company, or a company solely based on commercial inspections? What have their previous clients said about their work?

There are several associations that do commercial property certification, but the Certified Commercial Property Inspectors Association (CCPIA) is the most reputable commercial inspection training program in the United States. It is affiliated with the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors (InterNACHI), a leading training and certification association for home inspectors.

CCPIA “provides online training and resources. Inspectors who are certified through InterNACHI and/or CCPIA undergo rigorous and comprehensive training that often exceeds what is typically required of home and commercial inspectors” (What is CCPIA?)

Focus Building inspectors are certified

Focus Building Inspections is currently one of only two CCPIA-certified inspection companies within 200 miles of our headquarters in Tulsa, Oklahoma, and the only one dedicated solely to commercial inspections. Our inspectors are highly trained and dedicated to continual learning and excellence. We serve clients in Oklahoma, Missouri, Kansas, Arkansas, and Texas. We’re known and respected throughout the regional industry and our clients are continually satisfied with our professionalism and care.