How often should you reassess your buildings? This is an interesting question we encounter frequently and it came up in our recent Ask Bill Anything webinar. It’s a question that deserves careful consideration. For an answer, this week we’ll delve into the nuances of building assessments and why we believe a five-year cycle strikes the perfect balance.

Let’s start with “Why even assess buildings in the first place?” Buildings are dynamic entities, subject to wear and tear, environmental factors, and evolving codes and standards. Regular assessments allow us to gauge their current condition, identify potential issues, and plan for maintenance and upgrades. However, the frequency of these assessments is a key decision that can impact both cost and operational disruption.

Traditionally, the industry standard for reassessment has been every five years, and for good reason. Five years provides a substantial window of time during which significant changes can occur in a building’s condition and lifespan. Moreover, many organizations operate on five-year planning horizons, making it convenient to align reassessments with broader strategic planning initiatives.

Some may advocate for reassessments every three years, citing a desire for more frequent updates. However, we caution against this approach. Not only does it significantly increase the cost of assessments, but it may not yield proportionate benefits. The difference between a three-year and a five-year assessment cycle may not be substantial enough to justify the additional expense and disruption.

At Roth IAMS, we believe that five years strikes the optimal balance between cost-effectiveness and actionable insights and we recognize that each organization may have unique needs and circumstances. For instance, some institutions opt for internal assessments every two years, leveraging their internal expertise and resources.

Regardless of the reassessment cycle chosen, it’s crucial to keep data up-to-date between assessments. Regular maintenance, lifecycle management, and internal inspections can extend the interval between formal assessments while ensuring data accuracy and relevance. By staying proactive and vigilant, organizations can optimize their building management practices and minimize unexpected issues.

Additionally, reassessment frequency may vary depending on specific factors such as changes in building codes, environmental standards, or equipment inventory. Major regulatory revisions may necessitate more frequent reassessments to ensure compliance and mitigate risks. By staying informed and adaptable, organizations can navigate evolving requirements with confidence.

As you can see, the question of how often to reassess buildings is multifaceted, with no one-size-fits-all answer. However, by considering factors such as industry standards, organizational needs, and regulatory changes, organizations can develop a tailored approach that maximizes the value of building assessments to ensure their buildings remain safe, efficient, and sustainable for years to come.