How periodic should the structural inspections be for Higher-Risk Buildings (HRB) and for external staircases?
Under the Building Safety Act 2022, owners and managers of Higher-Risk Buildings (HRBs) have an ongoing duty to actively manage structural safety. This includes planning regular structural inspections to ensure that the building’s structural integrity remains sound throughout its life. The law does not specify exact time intervals; instead, it requires a “proportionate, continuous” approach to monitoring safety risks.
Recommended Frequency of Structural Inspections for HRBs
While the Building Safety Regulator (BSR) expects a risk-based system rather than fixed intervals, industry best practice provides the following guidance:
- Comprehensive structural inspections:
Typically every five years, or more frequently if the building shows signs of deterioration (e.g. cracking, corrosion, movement). - Visual structural checks:
Annual or biennial walk-throughs by competent personnel can help identify early signs of damage. - After significant events:
Structural reviews should be carried out immediately following events such as:- Fire, flood or impact damage
- Alterations or refurbishments affecting load-bearing elements
- Unusual ground movement, vibration, or settlement
- Post-remedial verification:
After structural repairs, a confirming inspection ensures the works have restored integrity.
Each inspection should form part of the Safety Case and Golden Thread, with findings recorded, risk ratings updated, and future inspection dates logged.
External Staircases: Special Considerations
External staircases, especially those made of steel or reinforced concrete, are exposed to weathering, corrosion, and fatigue. For buildings with shared or emergency stairs, these elements are critical to safe evacuation and must be kept structurally sound.
Integrating Inspection Frequency Into the Safety Case
The Principal Accountable Person (PAP) should define and document inspection frequency within their Structural Maintenance and Inspection Plan as part of the building’s Safety Case. The plan should:
- Outline inspection intervals for all major structural components.
- Assign responsibility for who conducts each inspection.
- Include triggers for ad-hoc inspections following incidents.
- Ensure results are logged within the Golden Thread and actioned promptly.
This structured approach demonstrates to the BSR that the building’s structural risks are being continuously assessed and managed.
How Structures Made Easy Can Help
- Preparing Structural Inspection & Maintenance Plans aligned with BSR expectations.
- Conducting visual and detailed structural inspections for HRBs and external structures.
- Providing Chartered Engineer sign-off and clear risk categorisation.
- Integrating findings into the Safety Case and Structural Safety Report for full compliance.
- Offering portfolio pricing and fast turnaround for housing associations, managing agents, and landlords.
Best practice for external staircase inspections:
- Visual checks: At least annually for corrosion, loose fixings, spalled concrete or cracked treads.
- Detailed structural inspection and report: Every 3-5 years by a structural engineer.
- More frequent review if the staircase is subject to heavy footfall, exposure to salt, coastal environments, or poor drainage.
Where deterioration is observed, intrusive testing (e.g. coating thickness, section loss, or rebar corrosion) may be required to confirm structural adequacy.
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