The Challenge of Aging Buildings

The Surfside collapse has brought attention to the challenges of aging buildings, prompting occupants, owners, and managers to assess the structural health and future of their own buildings. Stage 2 aging, occurring around 25 to 30 years, involves considering long-term deterioration and addressing expensive components like underground piping and structural elements. Conducting regular structural inspections by qualified engineers is crucial, with age, location, and materials guiding inspection priorities. The inspection findings should be included in the Reserve Fund Study to plan for necessary repairs or replacements. However, condo boards may sometimes hinder necessary actions due to financial considerations and the potential unpopularity of increased funding from owners.