Building Enclosure Inspections
A building enclosure has a demanding job and plays a vital role as the structure’s first line of defense against the elements. It wraps the entire building and must withstand imposed loads while managing critical environmental factors such as air infiltration, moisture, heat flow, and fire resistance. A well-designed enclosure is key for long-term durability, energy efficiency, and occupant comfort. But it only performs as intended if it’s built exactly as designed.
CANY’s Building Enclosure Inspection service ensures it is.
With nearly 30 years of experience working on complex building envelopes across New York City, we’re trusted to oversee the details others might miss. We represent the owner’s interest, verifying that the building enclosure systems are built according to contract documents, code-compliant, and true to the design intent.
This service supports:
Building owners and developers
Architects and consultants
Contractors and construction managers
Want to know if your building enclosure is on track?
Why This Building Enclosure Inspections Matters
The building enclosure is one of the most critical and complex systems on any projects. Small mistakes can quietly lead to big problems affecting performance, durability and cost.
Common Construction Risks:
Installation does not match the approved details
Inadequate anchorage to the structure
Incorrect insulation type or thickness, not meeting energy requirements
Waterproofing installed out of sequence
Unsealed through-wall penetrations
Incorrect or uncoordinated detailing
Use of non-approved materials, methods or substitutions
CANY helps avoid these pitfalls. Our Inspectors give owners peace of mind that the work conforms to the design intent, contract documents, and proper installation practices - with the right materials, in the right way, at the right time.
And when challenges arise (because they always do), we work to resolve them quickly and constructively, keeping your project on track without compromising the outcome.
CANY’s Involvement
Our inspectors are experienced professionals who understand how buildings come together in the field. We know how to translate design documents into real-world construction and identify issues before they are concealed in the build.
We evaluate each enclosure system from concept to construction, referencing approved architectural details, shop drawings, structural calculations, and installation methods to ensure work in the field aligns with the plans and overall design intent.
Our typical inspection process:
Step 1: Review approved contracts documents, submittals and product data
Step 2: Facilitate on-site coordination meetings for each system
Step 3: Observe construction to monitor installation and sequencing
Step 4: Identify and document non-conforming items or concerns
Step 5: Collaborate with the team to discuss and resolve issues constructively
Step 6: Follow-up with targeted inspections and final documentation
Our inspectors aren’t just taking notes—they speak the same language as your team. Through clear communication, steady collaboration, and mutual accountability, we help protect the integrity of your building’s enclosure.
Key Benefits
Why Choose CANY for Building Enclosure Inspections?
Nearly 30 years of building envelope experience
Trusted by respected architects, owners and contractors
Practical, real-world solutions
Clear documentation and consistent communication
A collaborative approach that keeps work moving
FAQ
What does a Building Enclosure Inspector do?
We observe construction in the field to confirm it matches the approved design and performance intent, especially for waterproofing and air barrier systems.
Is this the same as a Special Inspection?
No. This is a broader, more proactive service focused on enclosure performance. We can coordinate with special inspections as needed.
When should we bring CANY in?
Ideally, before enclosure work begins so we can get familiar with the project, but we can join at any point during construction.
What happens if you find something wrong?
We document the issue, raise it with the team, and work together to find an acceptable solution. Our goal is always to keep the project moving and on course
