What is a Structural Evaluation (Inspection)? When should I consider ordering a Structural Evaluation?
THE PROCESS
The structural evaluation process is a critical step in assessing the safety, integrity, and performance of buildings (and other structures). It involves a systematic and thorough examination of all visually accessible components of the structure to determine its condition, identify potential issues, and provide recommendations regarding maintenance, repairs, or upgrades. Structural Evaluations are performed by licensed professional engineers.
CIRCUMSTANCES THAT MAY NEED AN EVALUATION
A structural evaluation may be recommended after a general home inspection is performed and/or if any of the following are present or have occurred:
• Catastrophic Damage: This can include a fire, tornado, hurricane, earthquake or other catastrophic event that may have caused visible damage to the structure.
• Remodels/Additions/Expansions of Structure: If additional rooms and/or a remodel of a home occurs, the structure should be evaluated before, during, and after construction. Municipalities often require permits for any remodels or additions which a professional will inspect and/or approve before and after construction.
• Obvious Symptoms of Distress or Degradation: This could be severe concrete spalling or cracking, corrosion of any reinforcing bars/beams, visible leaning, bending or rotation, or other obvious signs or stress.
• Change in Use of Occupancy: For example, converting a non-used attic space to a now inhabitable room.
• Safety Concerns: If there is a safety, stability, or security concern regarding the structure, a professional evaluation may be recommended or needed.
THE EVALUATION REPORT
The evaluation (and final report) often includes the items investigated/evaluated, the techniques and analysis performed, the evaluation of any loading, and recommendations within the final assessment by the engineer. The structure can be deemed adequate for normal use of its anticipated life if properly maintained; possibly deemed inadequate for the intended use; the structure is unsafe and/or needs remedial work; and/or the structure is inadequate for its current use, but it may be adequate for alternative use, etc. For a structure to work optimally and to last as long as possible while also reducing hazards, the structural evaluation process is crucial. It should be carried out by qualified structural engineers and experts in the kind of structure being evaluated. Regular or follow-up reviews may be required if repairs are made
MYTH: Engineers only deal with structural defects.
FACT: Structural engineers can be used when converting a loft, adding a second story, installing solar panels, removing walls, changing footing designs, and to assess completed remodels, etc.
MYTH: Structural evaluations are the same as home inspections.
FACT: General home inspectors may provide general inspections of foundations, plumbing, roofs, doors, etc., however, they are not engineers. An engineer has the in-depth expertise often needed.
PHOTO EVIDENCE OF POTENTIAL STRUCTURAL ISSUES
STRUCTURAL EVALUATIONS BY RELOOLOGY
ReloOlogy Inspection Management Services can coordinate and conduct structural evaluations on a residential property. ReloOlogy maintains a nationwide network of licensed professionals (home inspectors, plumbers, engineers, etc.) with the proper knowledge and skillset to conduct these evaluations and to provide you with accurate and timely assessments
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Contact ReloOlogy Inspection Management services at info@reloology.com or visit our website, www.reloology.com, to connect with us! We enjoy providing training on a variety of property inspection-related topics.
