How do I check a taproom’s brewing tanks and cold storage before buying?

Ask first for the equipment list, with age, supplier and any service history for each tank, chiller and cold room. Then ask to see invoices for repairs. A pattern of the same part failing tells you more than a general statement that everything works.

Bring a technician who knows brewing equipment, and, separately, one who knows refrigeration. Tanks should be checked for leaks, damage inside and out, working valves and gaskets, and tidy cleaning routines. Cold rooms should hold temperature, show no heavy ice build-up, and have door seals and compressors in sound order. Ask to see temperature logs and what the staff did when readings drifted.

Confirm what you would actually own. Some equipment may be leased, financed or owned by a partner, and the sale agreement should say exactly what transfers. An equipment appraisal can help you understand condition and replacement cost, though the figure is only one input to your own decision. Finally, ask about capacity. If the tanks cannot meet current demand, the business may be limited or may buy beer in. Ask how the seller would grow production, and what that would need.

Key takeaways

• Gather service history and repair invoices for each tank, chiller and cold room.
• Hire separate technicians for brewing equipment and for refrigeration.
• Confirm in writing which equipment is owned outright and what transfers to you.