Structural Inspections Checklist

As an engineer carrying out a site inspection, it's your job to ensure the safety and integrity of the building. By conducting a thorough inspection, you will be able to identify potential issues, maintain the longevity of the structure and possibly even prevent failures.

This checklist provides a general guidance and overview of the most important items that should be inspected according to the author views and experience. Each project has its specific requirements, hence adapt this checklist accordingly.

A successful site inspection is most of the time the result of good communication and rapport with the builder on site. This structural inspection checklist has NOT been created to cover every and each item related to the construction of a building. Inspecting a construction site requires full attention, focus and generally the supervision of an experienced engineer.

A general checklist will not tell you that the contractor has excavated too close to an existing building nor that the architects have changed their mind and decided to use a heavier finish or add a wall or screen that catches more wind. You will need to be able to pick up those things on site or no one will.

 Understanding the load paths of the design is crucial before you start comparing the drawings on paper to what has been built on site. If something does not look right to you, it is probably because it is not right.

 Remember, you must build trust on site. You are a problem solver, so act like one.

Table of Contents:

1: Footing Inspections Checklist

2: Columns and Walls Inspections Checklist

3: Suspended Slab Inspections Checklist

4: Steelwork Inspections Checklist

5: Timber Framing Inspections Checklist

6: Inspections Tools