What’s the Difference Between a Commercial and Residential Inspection?

When people hear the term “property inspection,” they might assume all inspections are the same. In reality, residential inspections and commercial inspections serve very different purposes. The differences come down to scope, complexity, regulations, and reporting.

At Inside Out Home Inspections LLC, we focus exclusively on residential inspections—helping homebuyers in South Georgia feel confident about their purchase. But understanding how residential inspections differ from commercial ones can help you see why choosing the right type of inspector matters.

Scope and Complexity

Feature	Residential Inspection	Commercial Inspection
Focus	Evaluates a single-family home or small multi-unit building.	Assesses larger, more complex properties such as office buildings, retail centers, and industrial facilities.
Systems	Covers plumbing, electrical, HVAC, roof, foundation, and other essential systems.	Examines larger systems including fire suppression, elevators, escalators, security, specialized machinery, and complex electrical grids.
Scale	Smaller scale, simpler construction.	Large, varied structures with specialized features.

Purpose

Feature	Residential Inspection	Commercial Inspection
Buyer’s Objective	Ensures the home is safe and livable for the family.	Evaluates the property’s financial return on investment (ROI).
Risk Assessment	Identifies safety concerns and repairs that could become costly.	Focuses on long-term maintenance, compliance, and liabilities.

Regulations and Standards

Feature	Residential Inspection	Commercial Inspection
Governing Rules	Follows local building codes and residential safety standards.	Must comply with stricter requirements like ADA, fire safety codes, zoning laws, and federal standards (EPA, OSHA).
Standard of Practice	Many inspectors follow ASHI or InterNACHI guidelines.	Often guided by ASTM standards for Property Condition Assessments (PCA).

Expertise and Reporting

Feature	Residential Inspection	Commercial Inspection
Inspector’s Qualifications	Certified home inspectors perform the assessment.	May require a team of engineers, architects, or environmental specialists.
Reporting	Clear, straightforward report outlining issues, safety hazards, and recommended repairs.	A detailed Property Condition Report (PCR) with cost projections and system analysis.
Focus of Report	The home’s current condition to help guide purchase negotiations.	The property’s operational history and long-term financial viability.

Why Choose a Residential Inspection?

If you’re buying a home, you need more than just a “checklist.” A residential inspection protects your investment and your family by ensuring the property is safe, functional, and free from hidden problems.

At Inside Out Home Inspections LLC, we provide thorough residential home inspections in Tifton and the surrounding South Georgia area. Our goal is to give you peace of mind before closing day, so you can move into your new home with confidence.