Deck & Balconies Overview

Whether you own a storefront or a restaurant, wooden decks and balconies are fantastic ways to expand and enhance your place of business. These features, which come in a wide variety of shapes and sizes, can be used for a variety of purposes.

Unlike residential properties, decks and balconies on apartment buildings, restaurants, or other commercial spaces are held to strict safety and construction regulations under the International Building Code. This code stipulates specific safety and design standards, such as minimum handrail height, load capacity, and the maximum spacing between guardrails.

Deck & Balcony Inspection Process

In line with InterNACHI® Standards of Practice for Wooden Deck and Balcony inspections, your commercial property inspector will inspect, describe, and report on all visible components of your property’s deck(s) or balcony(s).

The inspection will vary between residential and commercial spaces, but will usually include inspection of:

  • Guardrails, handrails, and infills

  • Decking posts

  • Deck-side flashing

  • Stairways and steps

Your inspector will identify and report on any potential defects or needed repairs, such as:

  • Uneven posts

  • Signs of decay or rot

  • Bubbling, cracking, or discolored paint

  • Nail pops

  • Obvious trip hazards

  • Rust, corrosion, or iron stains near metal fasteners

  • Posts with exposed end-grains

  • Non-graspable handrails and railings

  • Sufficient guardrails and infill

  • Signs of potential wetting from downspouts, gutters, or sprinklers

  • Obstructed building egress

Our Warranties

We not only provide extremely thorough and professional inspections, but also provide peace of mind. We offer extended warranties for each of our successfully completed residential and specialty inspections!