Analysing the Physical Condition of Buildings: A Case Study of an Institution of Learning in Nigeria

Abstract

Buildings depreciate with time and gradually perform less than they are expected. This is a concern for building owners and users. Research on depreciation of buildings tends to focus on identifying or categorising defects. However, investigations that examine the condition of public buildings that inhabit large and frequent users is limited. The aim of this research is to analyse the physical condition of public buildings in an institution of learning. This study adopts a case study approach involving physical observations and the condition rating of three buildings in an institution of learning in Nigeria. The results of the analysis showed that there were several similar defects on the walls, floors, roof, electrical and mechanical services. The results on the condition of the buildings showed average condition index values indicating that the buildings were in moderate condition with the laboratory in a better condition with an average condition rating of 0.58 and the offices with an average condition rating of 0.52 and the classes with an average condition rating of 0.44. The study argues that improving the condition or state of the buildings would lead to enhanced building performance.