A careful look at the structure, envelope and systems of a building, with clear notes on what needs attention first.
Before you buy, renovate or add on, it helps to know what shape a building is in. A condition assessment looks at the roof, walls, foundation, structure, moisture, systems and finishes and records what is sound, what is worn and what needs attention. It turns a pile of unknowns into a plan. Owners and buyers in Nashville ask us for assessments before they commit to a project.
We visit the building and walk every room, the roof, the exterior and any crawl space or attic we can safely reach. We photograph and measure what we see and note signs of moisture, movement, wear and past repairs. We bring in a structural engineer or other specialist when something calls for it. You receive a clear summary with priorities and options for next steps. Make sure we can reach the attic, crawl space, basement and roof, or tell us in advance if access is limited. The areas that are hardest to see are often where the most important clues live, and good access lets us do a more complete and useful assessment. It also helps to prepare a list of your concerns, from sticking doors to musty smells to rooms that are always cold. Bringing them to the walkthrough lets us focus on the symptoms you notice and trace them to likely causes.
We look carefully and report in clear language, without jargon.
Findings are sorted into what is urgent, what is soon and what can wait.
Structure, moisture and systems issues are referred to the right experts.
The assessment becomes the starting point for renovation drawings and budgets.
Every area visited.
Conditions recorded.
Common trouble signs.
Experts brought in when needed.
What to do first.
Repair, renovate or reconsider.
Every topic has its own page with what to expect and how we approach it.
ResourceJames HardieA maker of fiber cement siding, trim and backer board, with products such as Hardie Plank, Artisan siding…Learn more ResourcePellaA window and door maker whose website shows before-and-after transformations such as living room remodels and fiberglass entry…Learn more 
ResourceENERGY STARA government-backed energy efficiency program with a label for efficient products, homes and buildings.Learn more Pick a project, set the size and add extras to see a ballpark planning range for design and building. Placeholder values only.
You tell us what you want to build or fix, and we set a visit that fits your day.
We look at the property or building, take measurements, talk through goals and note anything that affects design, such as slopes, structure and rules.
We sketch plans and options, you choose a direction and receive a plain written scope before detailed design begins.
We refine the design, coordinate engineers and prepare drawings and notes that builders can price and reviewers can approve.
We submit for permits, answer comments and help you compare builder proposals.
We answer questions during construction, review products, visit the site and walk through the finished work with you.
Not exactly. A home inspection is a general review. An assessment focuses on design and renovation decisions, and we may refer you to specialists.
Yes. This is a common use, and it supports your due diligence.
We can describe scope and priorities. A contractor or estimator provides pricing.
Visits often take a few hours, and reports follow in days to weeks.
Yes. We assess homes, offices, shops and other buildings.
Due Diligence for Property BuyersA design professional review of a property before you buy: condition, rules, potential and risks.Explore 
Renovation and RestorationPlans to renew older buildings: repairing what is worth keeping and updating what no longer works.Explore 
Structural Opening and Wall Removal DesignOpening walls and adding beams safely, with the structure designed by an engineer and the finish drawn by…Explore 
As-Built Drawings and Measured SurveysAccurate drawings of existing buildings, from careful hand measuring and laser scanning, for design, permits and records.Explore Tell us about your project and we will call you back to set up a visit.
Or call (615) 357-7797 to talk now.
