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Getting the construction type right is critical as it drives many decisions underwriters make
There are many videos and posts available to learn about the major types of building construction
Many online sources will identify the construction type for a particular building
Photos
Close up photos which indicate construction details are very helpful. The photos give the UW confidence that the classification of the construction is correct.
Inspection Prep
Online search for building information is helpful. Realtor posts, municipal information
Type I: Fire-Resistive Construction - This construction type features structural elements made of non-combustible materials like steel or concrete. It provides the highest level of fire protection and is typically used for high-rise buildings.
Type II: Non-Combustible Construction - This construction type features exterior walls made of non-combustible materials like masonry, concrete or metal panels, while interior structural elements can be made of wood or steel. It is commonly used for mid-rise commercial buildings.
Type III: Ordinary Construction - This construction type features exterior walls made of non-combustible materials like masonry or concrete and interior structural elements made of wood. It is commonly used for smaller commercial buildings.
Type IV: Heavy Timber Construction - This construction type features large structural elements made of solid wood, such as glue-laminated timber or cross-laminated timber. It provides a high level of fire resistance but is less common than other types.
Type V: Wood-Frame Construction - This construction type features exterior walls made of combustible materials like wood and interior structural elements made of wood. It is commonly used for smaller commercial buildings and low-rise structures.
It's important for insurance inspectors and underwriters to be familiar with these construction types to assess and price risk accurately.
Cracking or Signs of Distress
Look for cracks, settling, alignment issues which indicate structural issues with building
Recommendation: The building at [specify area] shows cracks, settling or indications that structural issues are present. A professional should inspect the building to determine actions required.
Collapse Hazard
The roof or barn is sagging. Obviously there are some structural issues involved. This is often seen in uninsured barns where no property coverage is being provided, however, liability coverage is provided. The farmer may just be letting the structure come down on its own and has no plans to repair the building. In these cases, the exposure is more that someone is injured when the building actually does fall down.
Recommendation: The roof at (specify area) appears to present a collapse hazard and should be replaced.
Roof Truss Failure
Especially in farm occupancy's, there will be a lot of low pitch roofs with truss supports. It is not uncommon to find cracked and broken trusses. As the carrier is typically insuring for weight of ice and snow, it is important to focus on the roof area when inside the building to identify damaged trusses.
Recommendation: The damaged truss or roof support should be repaired or replaced by a professional contractor to reduce potential property hazard.
Defect in Joists/Support
Look for sagging or soft floors above and when in the basement, be alert for signs of sagging, unsupported or damaged floor joists.
Recommendation: The joist or support in (specify area) appears to be damaged and should be repaired to reduce the structural hazard