Garage Safety Inspection: A Step-by-Step Guide to Get One Done (2024)

Safety is of the utmost importance in any space, especially when it comes to garages. A garage safety inspection is an essential step to ensure that your garage is safe for use and meets all necessary regulations.

As Benjamin Franklin famously said, “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure”. Taking the time to perform an inspection can save you from costly repairs or even worse, injury or death due to an unsafe environment. So, let’s get started on learning how to conduct a comprehensive and effective garage safety inspection!

What is a Garage Safety Inspection?

It is an important step in ensuring the safety of any vehicle and its occupants. It is a thorough examination of the garage, including the structure, lighting, ventilation, and other safety features. The inspection should also include a check of the garage door, tracks, springs, and other components to make sure they are in good working order. Additionally, it is important to inspect the walls and ceiling for signs of deterioration or damage.

When having an inspection performed, it is important to be thorough and take note of any potential risks or hazards. If any problems are found, they should be addressed immediately to ensure the safety of your vehicle and its occupants. Taking the time to conduct regular inspections can help keep your family safe and your car running smoothly.

Why is it Important?

A garage safety inspection is instrumental in keeping your family and home safe.

It is essential to have a professional inspect your garage regularly to make sure it is up to code and that all safety measures are in place. Not only does this help protect your family from potential hazards, but it also helps protect your property from damage due to faulty wiring or other issues.

Regular inspections can also help you save money by catching small problems before they become larger and more expensive to fix. Don’t wait until something goes wrong to get your garage inspected.

Pre-Inspection Preparation

Before you begin your inspection, make sure to gather all the necessary supplies such as a flashlight, ladder, and protective gear.

Additionally, it is important to familiarize yourself with local regulations and standards that may apply to your inspection. This will help you identify any potential hazards or deficiencies that may exist in your garage.

Besides, it is important to inspect the structure of the garage itself. Check for any signs of structural damage or deterioration, such as cracks in the walls or ceiling, loose boards, or water damage.

Check for any potential fire hazards such as exposed wiring or combustible materials. And then, inspect any electrical outlets and make sure they are properly grounded and protected from moisture.

Take the time to properly prepare for a garage safety inspection and familiarize yourself with local regulations. It will help you ensure that your garage is safe and secure.

Inspecting the Exterior of the Garage

When inspecting the exterior of your garage, check for any signs of structural damage such as cracks or deterioration. If you notice any, take action and repair it immediately to avoid further damage. Also, make sure to assess the condition of the roof.

Assess the condition of your garage roof for signs of wear and tear, like missing shingles or water stains. Don’t let these issues become a bigger problem. Identify potential hazards and take action before they become a problem. Ensure your garage remains safe for years to come.

Inspecting the Interior of the Garage

Next, when you turn towards the inspection of your garage interior, you need to check for any electrical hazards that may be present.

Make sure all wiring is properly installed and in good condition and ensure that all outlets are grounded and have a functioning circuit breaker. Additionally, look for signs of water damage or corrosion, as these can be indicative of a potential electrical hazard.

 

As per U.S. Fire Administration, about 23,400 cases of electric malfunction fires were, along with other leading causes, responsible for residential fires. With this, you can imagine the amount of damage your house can receive if you were to neglect the safety of your garage since most of the machinery is usually kept inside the garage’s storage room.

 

It’s also essential to assess the fire safety measures in place in your garage. Make sure all flammable materials are stored away from any heat sources and that any combustible liquids are stored securely.

Additionally, inspect the smoke detectors to ensure they’re in working order and replace any batteries if necessary. Consider installing a fire extinguisher in the garage for added protection.

Read: WHAT DOES A RESIDENTIAL GENERAL CONTRACTOR DO?

Inspecting the Doors and Windows of the Garage

Ensure your doors and windows are functioning flawlessly: no sticking or jamming.

 

Every year, over 2,000 people suffer painful injuries due to faulty automatic garage doors. Broken springs are often to blame, leading to severe and even life-threatening accidents. (Source)

 

You should also check if the locks are functioning properly and that they are secure enough to prevent unauthorized entry. Moreover, you should look for any signs of damage, such as cracks or warping, which can weaken the security of the door or window.

If you find any issues with the doors or windows, you should have them repaired or replaced as soon as possible. It is also a good idea to install additional security features, such as deadbolts and window bars, to further protect your garage from intruders.

Inspecting the Floor of the Garage

When inspecting the floor of your garage, it’s important to look for signs of wear and deterioration.

This is especially true for garages with concrete floors, as they are prone to cracking and other damage over time. If you notice any cracks or other damage, it’s important to take action right away.

Cracks can be filled with concrete repair material, while other forms of damage may require more extensive repairs. Additionally, check the floor for any areas that may be slick or slippery due to oil or other fluids.

If so, consider applying a sealant or non-slip coating to make the area safer. Finally, if you have any large items stored in the garage, make sure that they are not causing any stress on the floor that could lead to further damage.

 

Read: WHY GARAGE FLOOR RESURFACING IS BEST OPTION FOR YOU?

Inspecting the Walls and Ceiling of the Garage

Inspect your garage walls and ceiling for signs of moisture or mold growth, especially if you live in a humid area.

Moisture and mold can wreak havoc on the structure and create a health hazard. When checking for moisture or mold, look closely at the walls and ceiling for any discoloration or staining.

If you see any suspicious spots, use a damp cloth to wipe them away. If they don’t come off easily, this could be a sign of a more serious issue.

Furthermore, check around windows and doors for any water damage or condensation. If you do find signs of moisture or mold in your garage, it’s important to take action quickly.

You may need to repair any leaks or cracks in the walls or ceiling that are allowing water to enter the space. You should also consider installing a dehumidifier to reduce the level of moisture in the air.

Also, make sure to clean up any existing mold growth with a mixture of bleach and water before it has a chance to spread further.

Inspecting Storage Areas in the Garage

Don’t forget your storage area.

You must have it inspected for proper ventilation and fire safety measures. Poor ventilation can lead to an accumulation of combustible gases, which can easily ignite and cause a fire.

Additionally, check for any flammable materials that may be stored in the storage area. These materials should be kept away from any heat sources or open flames, as they can quickly catch fire and spread throughout the garage. Further, check for any electrical wiring that may be exposed in the storage area and make sure it is properly insulated and protected from moisture.

Read: THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO CONCRETE RESTORATION PROCESS AND METHODS

Conclusion

A garage safety inspection is an important step to ensure the safety of your family and property. It’s essential to have a professional inspect your garage regularly to make sure all safety measures are in place. A pre-inspection preparation can help you identify any potential problems before they become serious.

When it comes to inspection services, it is best to hire a professional service provider like Souffront Construction and Engineering. We have years of experience in providing top-notch inspection services and are committed to providing our customers with the highest quality of service. Our team of experts is highly knowledgeable and will be able to provide helpful advice on how to keep your garage safe and secure. Contact us today for a free consultation or check-up of your garage.