What is the scope of visual inspection?

Scope of Visual Inspection of the structural engineer appointed for conducting building inspection


The following is an excerpt of guideline on scope of visual inspection of a local authority for reference:
"Prior to the commencement of visual inspection, the structural engineer is to
obtain a set of the building’s structural layout plans from the building owner.
The availability of the structural layout plan will help the structural engineer to:

(a) understand the structural system and layout of the building;

(b) identify critical areas for inspection;

(c) identify the allowable imposed loads, in order to assess the usage and
possibility of overloading; and

verify if unauthorised addition or alteration works that affect the structure
of the building have been carried out.

In general, the structural engineer is expected to carry out, with reasonable
diligence, a visual inspection of:

the condition of the structure of the building

to identify the types of structural defects

to identify any signs of structural distress and deformation

to identify any signs of material deterioration

the loading on the structure of the building

to identify any change of use, misuse and abuse which can result in
overloading

any addition or alteration works affecting the structure of the building

to identify any addition or alteration works which can result in
overloading or adverse effects on the structure.

If there are no signs of any structural deterioration or defects, the visual
inspection should suffice and unless the structural engineer otherwise
advises, no further action needs to be taken.

If, on the other hand, signs of significant structural deterioration or defects are
present, the structural engineer should make a professional assessment of
the deterioration or defect and recommend appropriate actions to be taken.
Such actions may involve repair works or full structural investigation to parts
or whole of the building"