Building safety is vital for the people who live and work in a building. It can be hard to tell which facilities are solid and safe and which ones aren't—understanding what makes a building safe can help you distinguish between stable and dangerous buildings.
How to Discover if Your Building Is Safe
No one will be willing to live in a building that could fall at any moment, especially as our buildings are supposed to be built to last. That said, sometimes mistakes are made. Unsafe buildings can pop up anywhere and at any time, so it's essential to know how to find out if your structure is sturdy and keep yourself safe.
Inspection
You should look at the status report on its website to determine if it is safe. These reports will tell you about any issues already found or fixed. You should also check the information on its recent inspections. This will give you an idea of whether your building has been regularly inspected by a qualified professional or not.
If you can't find any information about building inspections or status reports online, then you should contact the local council or a local architect.
Building History
It would be best if you looked into the history of the building. This can be through various sources, including local government authorities, or simply asking neighbors or people who know about the area if there have been any issues in recent years. They may have information about the history of your building, including the types of repairs done over time.
Buyers will often ask for a strata report on a property before buying an apartment block. It's also worth noting that many buildings are put on sale with warranties regarding their structural
Ask Questions
If you are moving into any building, it is vital that you ask all the important questions. Ask if it has any issues or if anything terrible has happened in it. This could signify that something awful has happened, so it might be best to avoid that particular building altogether!
What Are the Warning Signs?
If you notice any signs of damage to your building, it's essential to get it checked out by a professional. This can help you identify and repair any issues promptly. If left unattended, these issues could escalate to more serious problems for the building and its residents.
Here are indications that it might be time for an inspection:
Cracks
Cracks can appear anywhere in a building, but I've often seen them on balconies or around doorways and windows. These are usually signed that there has been some lousy workmanship during the construction. They might also result from movement in the earth underneath the building. If you see cracks, it's essential to ask about their cause as soon as possible.
Concrete Drops
Larger concrete buildings will sometimes have concrete drops resulting from corrosion of the metal support bars inside the concrete. You should get your building checked out if you see any of these.
Mold
This can be due to dampness from leaking pipes or water penetration from the outside. It's not always a sign of structural damage, but it can indicate problems with the general condition of your home. When in doubt, always get a professional inspection performed on your building to avoid any potential risks in the future.
How Do You Tell a Strong Building?
It's not easy to tell a strong building from a weak one since the damage could be hidden behind the walls or foundations. The best way is to get a full inspection done. If you rent, your landlord is responsible for this.
It is normal to have concerns about the structural integrity of your property. This is especially true if your building is in an area prone to earthquakes or other natural disasters. When it comes to building safety and stability, it's always better to be safe than sorry.
We at RealManage can help put your mind at ease by helping you get all the facts regarding your building.
Talk to us today, and we will help you ensure that your building is a safe environment for all.
