Modern building codes and structural engineering have made our buildings extremely safe. However, buildings do require maintenance, and if signs of structural damage become apparent, immediate action should be taken. Continual maintenance and inspections are critical to the operations of any building and the safety of all inhabitants.
The following are five primary actions that building owners should take to prevent major structural issues in their buildings:
1. Third-party professionals should conduct annual inspections to identify any issues that could lead to deficiencies or damages. For example, major structural components should be assessed by structural engineers with experience performing such inspections. When issues are identified, corrective actions should be taken and documentation made for maintenance or repairs.
Inspectors conducting building assessments should review any changes following renovations, additions or other changes which may affect the building’s structure. Adding loading to a roof, moving walls or other changes can adversely affect a building. Inspectors (including structural engineers) need to be familiar with building design changes and proper authorities must sign off on all renovations or upgrades.
It’s important to conduct post-event inspections following major weather events to identify any damage, including major structural issues or minor things like blocked drains which can lead to significant property damage.
2. In high-rise towers, regular inspections should include the identification of concrete spalling. Corrective action should be taken in places where concrete has fallen off or detached, especially in structural columns. If there is deterioration of reinforcing steel, immediately have a structural engineer determine the damage. Identify and carefully monitor wall cracks. New buildings may settle, and this should be monitored. Cracks that grow, spread or otherwise show deterioration should be addressed immediately.
3. Institute financial planning for major improvements and capital expenditures in all building maintenance plans.
4. Identify risks early. Building management should perform regular assessments. Training maintenance staff and leadership to recognize potential risks may identify issues prior to formal inspections. Documenting such assessments may help to record actions taken to reduce both property and liability risk for the buildings and their residents.
5. Owners should not reduce coverage to cut costs. Have a formal review of your insurance policies and coverage completed by a trusted insurance professional.
Taking these five measures does not guarantee a building will not experience a catastrophic event but they will reduce risk to all buildings — they have been proven to prevent both minor and major loss events.
Frank DeLucia
Senior Vice President
Hub International Northeast
frank.delucia@hubinternational.com
(212)338-2395
