A structural assessment is a professional review of a structure’s condition or performance for a defined purpose and scope.
Definition
A structural assessment examines a building, bridge, or other structure to answer a specific question, such as whether observed damage needs further investigation or whether a planned change may affect structural performance. Depending on the assignment, the work may include records review, site observations, measurements, testing, calculations, or recommendations. The agreement should identify the areas reviewed, information relied on, access limits, and deliverables. Firms may price and staff assessments differently based on the level of investigation, testing, and analysis included. A visual review does not automatically include concealed components or confirm every detail in old drawings. An assessment is not necessarily a full inspection, a design for repairs, or a guarantee of future performance. Owners should distinguish its stated conclusions from work that would require additional scope. Professional standards and practice resources are available from ASCE.
How owners use it
- Define the review question, access, records, testing, and deliverables before setting the fee.
- Track time for field observations, analysis, and reporting separately when reviewing the assessment’s project margin.
- Example: 12 field hours + 18 analysis hours + 10 reporting hours = 40 labor hours for the assessment.
- Use documented findings to scope a separate structural retrofit or additional investigation when needed.
