How do the Buildings at Risk Service assess condition?
The condition of a building is usually assessed during site visits undertaken by the Buildings at Risk Service. Usually based upon a visual inspection of the external fabric, it does not constitute a structural appraisal and independent expert advice should always be sought. The following categories are used to describe the condition of a building, though other criteria often come into play. Ruinous The building is a roofless shell. Little of the original fabric remains other than the external walls. Very Poor The building is either extensively fire damaged, partially collapsed, or is suffering from major structural problems. It may be totally or partially roofless, but retains a little more fabric than just the external walls. Very little of the interior remains. Poor The building has been vacant for a number of years and does not appear to be maintained. Most of the external fabric remains, but there are obvious signs of deterioration such as slipped slates, vegetation growth, broken
