Author(s): Sophie L Dubois

Abstract: Building condition surveys play a critical role in ensuring the safety, durability, and functional performance of low-rise residential structures. These surveys provide systematic assessments of structural, architectural, and service-related components, enabling informed decisions related to maintenance, repair, and long-term asset management. In many developing and developed regions alike, low-rise residential buildings constitute a major portion of the built environment and are often subjected to aging, environmental exposure, inadequate maintenance, and evolving occupancy demands. Despite their importance, building condition surveys are frequently conducted using inconsistent methods, subjective judgments, or incomplete documentation, leading to unreliable outcomes and inefficient intervention strategies. This article presents a practical and structured approach to conducting building condition surveys specifically tailored for low-rise residential structures. The proposed approach emphasizes standardized inspection procedures, clear classification of defects, prioritization based on severity and risk, and integration of visual assessment with basic non-destructive evaluation techniques. Attention is given to common deterioration mechanisms such as moisture ingress, material degradation, foundation settlement, and service system failures. The approach also highlights the importance of documentation, photographic evidence, and condition rating systems to support transparent reporting and decision-making. By focusing on practicality, the methodology is designed to be applicable by engineers, surveyors, and facility managers working under resource and time constraints. The research argues that adopting a consistent and methodical survey framework can significantly enhance the reliability of condition assessments, optimize maintenance planning, and extend the service life of residential buildings. Ultimately, the article contributes to improving building performance management by bridging the gap between theoretical guidelines and real-world inspection practices in low-rise residential contexts.

DOI: 10.22271/2707840X.2026.v7.i1a.55

Pages: 20-23 | Views: 2 | Downloads: 1

Download Full Article: Click Here