Building assessments are a great way for property owners to gain a thorough understanding of their building. They highlight the need, extent, cost and urgency of improvement projects. However, building assessments have a reputation for being time- and labor-intensive.
We’ve rounded up three simple ways to streamline the process.
Complete Building Assessments In-House
Building assessments for complex or high-profile properties are usually completed by professional engineers and architects. But they can also be done by a building team’s facilities staff. A self-assessment can be a quick and cost-effective way to stay on top of things. Just make sure that your team is using an objective and repeatable inspection process.
Stay on Track with a Schedule
Complete building assessments are recommended every three to five years. One approach is to have a consultant do this, but have an in-house team perform a “mini-assessment” once or twice a year. This keeps maintenance, repair and warranty information up-to-date and will ensure repairs are top of mind. It’s also an ideal way to confirm that previously identified deficiencies have been addressed.
If there’s a major change in a building, have your team take the opportunity to reassess it. This might include a system failure or installation of a new piece of equipment. These smaller updates expedite the process and keep your data current at all times.
Leverage Technology with 4tell™
Traditionally, companies track business assessment information manually. Then they enter the information into spreadsheets and databases. But this can be inefficient and prone to error.
Today, there are many web-based tools that can be used on-site. For example, 4tell™ Assessment is a simple way for field teams to collect information into a central database.
And its mobile technology makes it easy to use in the field. This method is faster because data is only entered once. Since there’s no re-recording of information, it’s less likely to lead to mistakes.
The system uses industry-standard templates, automated workflow and built-in QA/QC processes to reduce errors. It also provides consistent deliverables and one-click reporting.
Best of all, it makes things easy when it comes time to reassess your assets. You’ll have all your information available, literally at your fingertips.
Whether you use building assessments to detail and track immediate repairs or to help guide long-range capital planning, they provide invaluable information for property owners. Take the time to make sure you’re handling them as efficiently as possible.
Photos: VOJTa Herout / Shutterstock.com, Yuriy Rudyy / Shutterstock.com
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