Atlanta, Georgia Property Condition Assessments
Embarking on an evaluation aligned with ASTM E2018 for guidelines for Property Condition Assessments, our team at Partner Engineering and Science in Atlanta, Georgia, brings together a cadre of registered engineers, architects, and seasoned commercial building inspectors.
Engaging Partner for a Property Condition Assessment initiates a comprehensive evaluation encompassing the diverse component systems of buildings. Our review spans a visual assessment of the site, structures, buildings’ component systems (covering HVAC, conveying systems, and plumbing), electrical frameworks, structural integrity, exterior facades, roofs, interior finishes, and the overall site amenities. We meticulously assess site enhancements, focusing on existing condition, completion status, general code conformance, life cycle costs, suitability for their intended purpose, and the extent of any defects. Our technical evaluations encapsulate the visible state of improvements at the time of assessment.
In addition to on-site visual inspections, our process delves into on-site maintenance records, architectural blueprints, and proposals for future capital enhancements, if applicable. We meticulously comb through building department archives at the City and conduct interviews with on-site engineering and management personnel. For a comprehensive analysis and recommendation, we rely on the Client to furnish all pertinent information related to the site.
Our comprehensive reports, spanning 15- to 30-pages, go beyond detailing immediate repairs in an “Immediate Repairs Table” such as critical life safety issues, failing building systems, and deferred maintenance that necessitate investments exceeding $2,000 for repair or replacement. We go a step further by preparing a “Replacement Capital Reserve Table,” offering estimates of major capital outlays projected over the upcoming 12 years. Each report provides a detailed discussion on the condition of every building system along with recommended improvements.
State & Local Resources
Additional state and local information about PCAs can be obtained from the following resources:
What Makes Atlanta, Georgia PCAs Different
In Atlanta, Georgia, conducting Property Condition Assessments (PCAs) for Commercial Real Estate (CRE) properties involves several unique factors that set it apart from other locations:
- Historical Significance: Atlanta has a rich historical heritage, and many CRE properties have historical significance or unique architectural features that require specialized attention during PCAs. The assessments often need to account for preservation considerations while ensuring compliance with modern building codes.
- Weather Considerations: Atlanta experiences a range of weather conditions, including hot summers and occasional severe storms. PCAs in this region may focus on assessing the property’s resilience to these climatic factors, such as the impact of high humidity on building materials or the integrity of roofs and structures under the threat of strong winds or hail.
- Environmental Factors: Atlanta’s diverse landscape can introduce specific environmental concerns. Properties might be situated near green spaces, water bodies, or industrial areas, necessitating evaluations for potential environmental risks like soil contamination, flood risks, or issues related to nearby land uses.
- Urban Development Dynamics: As a rapidly growing metropolitan area, Atlanta undergoes continuous urban development and redevelopment. PCAs here might include assessments of properties in transition, considering potential renovations or adaptive reuse possibilities while navigating zoning regulations and local development plans.
- Transportation and Infrastructure Impact: Atlanta is a major transportation hub, and PCAs often factor in the impact of transportation networks like highways, railways, and airports on the property. Evaluations may address noise pollution, accessibility, and the influence of nearby infrastructure on property values.
- Building Codes and Compliance: Georgia has its own set of building codes and regulations that differ from other states, and PCAs in Atlanta must ensure compliance with these specific local codes. Assessors need to have a deep understanding of these regulations to provide accurate and comprehensive reports.
- Economic and Market Trends: Atlanta’s property market dynamics, influenced by factors like population growth, job markets, and industry trends, impact the value and potential of CRE properties. PCAs often integrate analyses of these economic factors to provide a holistic view of the property’s long-term viability and potential risks.
- Diverse Property Types: Atlanta hosts a wide variety of CRE properties, from historic buildings in downtown districts to modern developments in suburban areas. Assessments need to be adaptable to various property types, considering their unique characteristics and potential challenges.
