Regular structural inspections are critical for identifying issues and avoiding a catastrophe

By Phil De La Mare 

Many building owners across the country should have their building’s structural integrity inspected on a regular basis to avoid failure or costly repairs—and even tragedies like the Miami condominium collapse in the summer of 2021. 

As a structural engineer with many years of structural forensics experience and repairs, I recommend that all structures be visually inspected every 10 years and a thorough in-depth element inspection be conducted every 25 years. This consistent schedule of inspections can not only help ensure the safety of occupants and visitors, it also can eliminate prohibitively costly construction repairs if left neglected — and complete reconstruction should the structure collapse.  

Just as we should not avoid going to the doctor for regular check-ups even when we seem healthy, we also should not let hidden structural problems go unnoticed until it’s too late. Engage your structural engineer to help identify simple measures and preventive steps that can be taken to ensure the safety and stability of your building to avoid catastrophe. 

Learn more about IMEG’s structural engineering forensics and diagnostics services.