Structural Audit
Structural Audit & Its Need
The General Health And Performance Of A Structure Depends On Its Quality, Workmanship &
Maintenance. As A Structure Grows Old, Ageing, Use (Or Misuse) And Exposure To The
Environment Can Affect The Health Of The Building Significantly. Therefore, It Is Advisable To
Monitor It Periodically By Taking A Professional Opinion.
What is a Structural Audit?
A Structural Audit is a preliminary technical survey of a structure to assess its general health as a civil engineering structure. It is usually initiated as the first step for repair. This is similar to the periodic health checkup recommended for older people.
Understanding the Scope & Exclusions
Structural Audit extends beyond the building frame to encompass masonry, plaster, painting, plumbing, waterproofing, and more, which can affect the strength or durability of the building if not properly maintained. Exclusions from the scope include:
- Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) is not included.
- Visible effects of internal alterations will be documented, but not the consumption of FSI (Floor Space Index).
- Type of repair required will be specified, but not its cost estimate.
- Remarks on the general health of the building will be given, but assessment of foundation and structural stability are excluded.
Key Observations & Data
The Structural Auditor’s report is based on:
1. Visual survey of the building.
2. Feedback from the members.
3. Repair history of the building.
4. Drawings, if available.
The auditor maintains a comprehensive checklist of observations, correlating them before providing remarks and recommendations.
Addressing Survey Difficulties
Certain constraints may limit the visibility of distress:
1. Newly plastered/painted building.
2. Locked flats/inaccessible areas.
3. Wall cladding/false ceiling.
4. Heavy/fixed furniture.
Maximum possible data should be collected using member feedback forms.
Contents of the Report
The report covers:
1. Information about the society.
2. Description of buildings.
3. Info supplied by the society.
4. Dates and mode of survey.
5. List of areas and flats surveyed.
6. General observations.
7. Critical observations.
8. Probable causes of distress.
9. Remarks on structural health.
10. Recommendations for further investigations, repair, and strengthening.
11. Suggestions on immediate measures, if necessary.
12. Type of repair required, urgency, and repair items.
Responsibilities & Commissioning
Commissioning Structural Audit and implementing the recommendations of the report are the responsibilities of the managing committee of each Cooperative Housing Society (CHS). Submission of the report to the society marks the end of the auditor’s scope of work. The Structural Auditor is responsible only to the extent of the correctness of his observations listed in the report and the soundness of his remarks and recommendations.
