In what order should the various levels of a building be inspected?

Inspecting a building systematically from the basement up is crucial for several reasons. Starting at the basement allows for the detection of potential hazards such as water damage, mold, or structural issues that may not be visible from higher levels. This approach also ensures that any conditions or issues that could affect the safety and stability of the upper levels are addressed first.

Furthermore, beginning inspections at the lowest level allows personnel to evaluate how various building systems, such as electrical and plumbing, affect the entire structure. Issues identified in the basement can lead to safer handling of conditions found above, as inspectors can assess the impact of any problems that might escalate.

Conversely, inspecting from the top down might overlook critical conditions in lower levels that could go unnoticed until there is a significant problem. While inspections may also occur from the exterior to the interior or in an order deemed necessary, these methods do not guarantee a comprehensive understanding of how lower levels contribute to overall building safety and risk. The systematic upward approach creates a more effective inspection strategy.