What it means
Before a tenant or owner can open for business in new or altered space, the authority having jurisdiction typically expects inspections to be passed. These can cover building, electrical, plumbing, gas, HVAC and fire protection work, along with fire alarm and emergency lighting tests.
The exact documents depend on the municipality and the work done.
Why it matters
Opening without the proper approvals can put your insurance, lease and business at risk. Open items at inspection also push back your move-in date.
The final stretch is often tight, because many systems must be tested and documented together in a short time.
How HSM handles it
HSM plans backward from your occupancy date. We schedule inspections, system tests and deficiency corrections early, and we gather the test reports, certificates and permits required. Our electricians and low voltage team test power, lighting, fire alarm and emergency systems, and our mechanical crew tests and balances the HVAC and plumbing.
Because the people who installed the systems are the ones commissioning them, issues are corrected in the same visit instead of waiting for another trade to return.
What to plan for
Tell us your opening date as soon as you have it. Plan furniture, equipment and signage deliveries around inspection dates, since access to the space may be restricted until approvals are granted.
Keep all certificates and test reports together. Landlords, insurers and inspectors may ask for them at any time, and they are also useful when you sell or renew your lease.