Recent National Building Expert Articles
Building Safety
Fire Safety
A significant issue of concern is an updated fire alarm system. The alarm system must be working properly and tested periodically on a maintenance schedule. A properly functioning fire suppression system inspection includes inspecting fire sprinklers, fire hoses and standpipes. Inspect elevators and ensure that they have a current operating certificate. Walk through all fire […]
Buidling Exterior
Gutter Garden
First you have a new roof and new gutters. Then over time, the small granules on the asphalt roofing shingles start to wear and come loose. During time of wind and rain, the loose granules end up collecting in the gutter.Birds and wind contribute to seeds and other plant materials growing in the gutter. Soon […]
Building Interior
Light Switch Plug
We have all heard of creative financing right? Well, check this out. I call it creative electrical work. I saw this at one of my inspections and thought “how unusual”. The light switch is getting its power from a lamp cord type extension cord which is plugged into a non-grounded 2 prong outlet. The code […]
Plumbing
Why Is A Pressure Regulator Needed?
You may see a strange looking pipe setup with a thing that looks sort of like a bell around your building. That contraption is called a PRV or Pressure Regulator Valve.It may also be called a pressure reduction valve, water reducing valve or pressure reducing valve.The water pressure coming from the street into a building […]
Electrical
Electrical Safety
The electrical system of a building should be inspected every five years. During an inspection, the inspector open all circuit breaker boxes and notice any overloading of power and test for any voltage drops. A licensed and certified electrician must do the assessment. He will be able to professionally inspect for any other conditions that […]
Mechanical Systems
Saving Energy Creates Safety Hazard
There are occasions during my inspections of underground parking decks where the exhaust fans were not on. Some fans broke down and were never fixed. Many others worked, but were turned off on purpose. When I asked the Building Manager, I got the same response, “we turned the fans off to save electricity”. On some […]
General
Corona Virus
CORONAVIRUS NOTICE: THE NATIONAL BUILDING EXPERT GIVES IMPORTANT PREVENTION TIPS Nation Building Expert Dr. Lance Luke shares important tips when entering public or private building facilities. It is important to be aware of surroundings while visiting offices, shopping centers and other places of business and recreation. Be aware when touching railing, door handles and door […]