Assessments
What is a PCA / FCA?
BBCO performs Property Condition Assessments (PCA) as well as Facility Condition Assessments (FCA) for a wide range of clients on a variety of building types. A Property Condition Assessment is the evaluation of a commercial property and its assets at a specific point in time to identify and report on the physical condition of real property improvements and deficiencies of each building/system on a property through a limited property inspection.
A Facility Condition Assessment analyzes the physical condition of a facility’s assets to determine their age, type, condition, value, and maintenance/repair needs. Similar to a PCA, Facility Condition Assessments include a limited facility inspection of each building/system, but with the intent of helping owners better understand the value of their assets, determine their usable lifespan, and maintain their physical condition.
Assessment Process
Whether performing a Property Condition Assessment or a Facility Condition Assessment, there are standard steps in achieving the outcome: Information Gathering, Facility Walk Through Survey, Estimates of Probable Costs, and Final Report.
Information gathering includes reviewing existing documents and interviewing staff. Interviewing staff is important in gathering information on building element deficiencies that cannot be readily observed. This could include mechanical or electrical systems not performing properly or deficiencies that only occur during extreme weather events.
A Facility Walk Through Survey is performed by an individual or team of registered professionals. The survey information gathered is based on what can reasonably be observed. Photographs are taken of any deficiencies observed. If a hazardous material survey is part of the assessment, then a specialized team will walk the facility and gather samples for testing.
Estimates of probable cost to correct deficiencies are conducted. The estimates for a standard PCA do not include costs associated with repairs or improvements that are cosmetic, part of remodeling, improvements, enhancements, or normal preventative maintenance.
Report Documentation shall include deficiencies discovered during the information gathering phase. Photographs representing deficiencies observed during the walk through shall be numbered and titled for easy reference. Deficiencies gathered during the interview process shall be noted with the source provided. The report or database will include recommendations for components or systems that require further study or investigation beyond the standard walk-through observation.
