Walk-Through Survey
The site-visit component of a PCA: observation of readily accessible areas by sight, hearing and smell across the ten building systems E2018 lists.
By Nicolas Reimer, Founder, Baseline PCR · E2018-24 s9 · Published September 18, 2026
The walk-through survey is the first of the assessment's three components. E2018 limits it to readily accessible and easily visible areas, allows representative observations of repetitive elements provided the extent is disclosed, and excludes testing, calculations, dismantling, operating equipment and entering unsafe or concealed spaces. The 2024 edition broadened "observe" to include what the field observer hears and smells, so a failing bearing or a musty odor is a legitimate observation when labelled as one.
The survey covers ten systems in the guide's order: site; structural frame; roofing and building envelope; plumbing; heating; air conditioning and ventilation; electrical; vertical transportation; life safety and fire protection; interior elements. Photographs are required at minimum of the elevations, site, roof, structure, plumbing, HVAC, electrical, conveyances, life safety and representative interiors. See photograph requirements.
Related: field observer, readily accessible, limiting conditions.
Sources
- ASTM E2018-24, Standard Guide for Property Condition Assessments (ASTM International)
- AEI Consultants, Updates to ASTM Standard E2018-24
ASTM E2018-24 is copyrighted by ASTM International and is paraphrased here, never reproduced; buy the guide from ASTM to read the text. This page is general information for practitioners, not engineering, legal or lending advice.