Documentation
A crucial step following consultation with the developer is to document the existing condition of the historic structure. Such an investigation provides a "baseline" from which changes to the building during the adjacent construction can be identified, monitored and assessed. Like the consultation process, thorough documentation benefits both the historic property owner and the developer. For the former, it may be used to substantiate claims that damage occurred as a result of the neighboring construction work by illustrating the previously sound condition of the historic building. If the damage existed prior to construction work, the record can show that it was not caused by the developer's negligence. In the case of future litigation, the documentation record can serve as evidence along with the testimony of the professional who undertook the assessment.
Both parties should insure that the documentation is objective and accurate. Joint surveys, in which the developer and the historic property owner participate or sign off on noted conditions, are most likely to ensure that the resulting data is not in dispute. When the developer pays for the assessment, it is advisable that an independent professional be hired and that the survey results be accessible.
Information obtained through documentation can also be used in formulating a protection plan for the historic building. By characterizing existing damage and exposing potential weaknesses, the documentation process identifies areas of the structure that may require additional protection as well as appropriate locations for monitoring equipment. Features that should receive particular attention during visual inspections would also be highlighted. Although a formal building condition survey including analysis, repair proposals and cost estimates is not necessary, the property owner may find that the disruptive period during adjacent work provides an opportune time for a thorough building survey program.
Documentation of existing conditions should take the form of written descriptions, 35mm color photographs and/or a videotape recording. Photographs should show both the interior and exterior of the building, with close-up images of cracks, staining, indications of settlement or other fragile conditions. A complete interior and exterior crack survey should be undertaken to identify and characterize existing cracks. Their locations can then be plotted on a drawing of each wall or ceiling surface. While identifying every hairline crack may be impractical in a large building or one that exhibits a great deal of preexisting damage, the more thorough the documented record, the better. The condition of features such as arches, chimney stacks and parapet walls determined by the engineer to be particularly susceptible to distress should also be recorded even when no damage is apparent.
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