Technical Opinion on the Unsafe Condition of a Building

Technical Opinion on the Unsafe Condition of a Building is an official engineering document confirming that a building or its structural elements are in a hazardous technical condition and may pose a threat to people or property.

Such an opinion is prepared on the basis of a technical inspection of buildings and structures and includes an assessment of the condition of load-bearing structures, the degree of their damage, and recommendations for further action: repair, reconstruction, or demolition.

The performance of such an inspection is governed by the legislation of Ukraine in the field of construction, in particular by the provisions of the Law of Ukraine “On Regulation of Urban Development Activities”, as well as by the relevant state building regulations.

When a Technical Opinion on Unsafe Condition Is Required

The need to prepare such a document arises in various situations where critical structural damage is suspected.

Building Damage

A technical opinion is required in cases of:

• cracks in load-bearing walls or floor slabs

• foundation settlement

• deformation of columns or beams

• roof failure

• significant structural wear

Damage Caused by Emergency Events

The inspection is carried out after:

• fire

• explosion

• man-made accidents

• natural disasters

• damage caused by hostilities

Before Reconstruction or Major Repairs

In the case of major reconstruction of a building, it is often necessary to confirm the actual technical condition of the structures.

Before Demolition of a Building

A technical opinion may confirm that the building is unfit for use and subject to demolition.

What the Unsafe Condition of a Building Means

An unsafe condition is the technical condition of a building or its structural elements in which:

• the load-bearing capacity of structures is reduced

• there is a risk of partial or complete collapse

• further use of the building is unsafe

In such a case, engineers may recommend:

• immediate restriction of use

• structural strengthening works

• partial or full reconstruction

• demolition of the building.

How a Technical Inspection of a Building Is Carried Out

Preparation of the technical opinion involves a comprehensive engineering assessment.

Documentation Review

At the first stage, specialists review:

• the technical passport of the property

• design documentation

• previous inspection reports

• information on reconstructions or repairs

Structural Inspection

A detailed inspection is carried out of:

• foundations

• load-bearing walls

• columns and beams

• floor slabs

• roofing

• stairwells

All damage is recorded, including:

• cracks

• deformations

• reinforcement corrosion

• material deterioration.

Instrumental Investigations

In complex cases, the following may be performed:

• geodetic measurements of deformations

• determination of material strength

• monitoring of foundation settlement

• inspection of structures using special instruments.

What the Technical Opinion Includes

A technical opinion on the unsafe condition of a building usually includes:

1. General information about the property

2. Description of the building’s structural scheme

3. Inspection results

4. Photographic record of damage

5. Analysis of the causes of destruction

6. Assessment of the technical condition of structures

7. Conclusion regarding the possibility of further use

8. Recommendations for repair, reconstruction, or demolition.

Typical Mistakes Made by Building Owners

In practice, property owners often make mistakes that may lead to a more complicated situation.

The most common of these are:

• continuing to use an unsafe building

• carrying out repairs without a technical inspection

• ignoring cracks in load-bearing structures

• absence of an official technical opinion

This may lead not only to further deterioration of the building, but also to legal liability in the event of an accident.

Conclusion

A Technical Opinion on the Unsafe Condition of a Building is a key document for assessing the safety of the property’s use and making decisions regarding its repair, reconstruction, or demolition.

The company GlobalBud Ukraine provides technical inspections of buildings and structures, preparation of technical opinions, and engineering reports in accordance with the requirements of the applicable legislation and building regulations of Ukraine. Our experienced engineers and lawyers provide comprehensive support for real estate and construction projects — from technical analysis to the preparation of all necessary turnkey documentation for individuals and legal entities, including international companies.