Are these support beams necessary?

[Kranti K.]

Hello Everyone,  We are looking to close a multi unit in Chicago and our inspector showed a picture of these two metal beams on the roof. These are towards the back of the building. He says they are not necessary and should be removed to reduce weight. Seller says they are added for support. Any ideas? Should we have them removed or keep them for any use?

?

[Jerry S.]

Don't remove them.  Keep them in place until you get the opinion of a trusted (and licensed) contractor or a structural engineer.  I highly doubt someone would go to the trouble of installing steel beams on the roof unless there was some underlying issue.