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In this episode, I talk with Joe DiPompeo, P.E., SECB, F.SEI, F.ASCE, president of Structural Workshop LLC, about the transformative power of technology to enhance building inspections, the significant impact of new inspection mandates across states, and the crucial lessons the industry has learned from the Surfside collapse.
***The video version of this episode can be viewed here.***
Engineering Quotes:
Here Are Some of the Questions I Asked Joe:
- Can you explain the recent changes in building inspection requirements in New Jersey, the New York City metro area, and Florida, and what critical updates should property owners and developers be aware of?
- What essential lessons has the engineering community taken from the Surfside collapse regarding building inspections and structural safety?
- What are the main components of New Jersey’s new law on structural inspections and reserve studies for condo buildings, and how does it affect the funding and upkeep of these properties?
- What are the immediate and long-term impacts of the growing focus on mandatory inspections and repairs within the industry?
- In what ways are technologies like drones and rope access transforming building inspections, and how do they stack up against traditional methods such as visual inspections with a hammer and chain?
- Why are experience and intuition critical in inspection work, particularly when spotting potential issues during a visual inspection?
- What advice would you offer to engineers at the start of their careers in this field to help them develop the necessary skills and experience?
Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This Episode About How to Enhance Building Inspections With Tech Solutions:
- Recent changes in building inspection requirements have significantly expanded the scope of inspections in areas like New Jersey, New York City, and Florida. Property owners and developers must stay updated on these regulations to ensure compliance and avoid potential safety risks.
- New York City’s parking garage inspection law, which mandates timely repairs of identified defects, reflects lessons learned from the Surfside collapse. This stricter enforcement ensures that safety issues are addressed promptly to protect the public.
- New Jersey’s new law requires structural inspections and reserve studies for condo buildings to guarantee they are well-maintained and properly funded for necessary repairs. This legislation prevents scenarios where insufficient funding could hinder essential maintenance, thus safeguarding the value and safety of the properties.
- The increasing emphasis on mandatory inspections and repairs, as seen with New York City’s regulations, impacts the industry by ensuring that safety issues are resolved quickly. This approach enhances public safety immediately and sets a long-term standard for building maintenance.
- Technologies like drones and rope access are transforming facade inspections by providing detailed, close-up views that enhance initial screenings. However, traditional tools like hammers and chains remain crucial for certain tasks, ensuring that inspections are thorough and accurate.
- Experience and intuition are vital in inspection work because they enable inspectors to identify potential issues early on by understanding what looks and sounds right. This expertise is essential for making accurate assessments and determining if further inspection or repairs are needed.
- Engineers should seek environments that offer strong mentorship and hands-on experience, as these are crucial for developing the skills and intuition necessary for effective inspections. Additionally, staying informed about industry updates, like those provided by the New York City Department of Buildings, can help them understand the evolving standards in building safety and compliance.
More Details in This Episode…
About Joe DiPompeo, P.E., SECB, F.SEI, F.ASCE
Joe serves as president of Structural Workshop, which was founded in February 2004. Joe has extensive experience in all aspects of structural engineering, structural analysis, inspections, and design of a large variety of types of structures and materials. Joe also has extensive experience in real estate due diligence and forensic engineering. His interests include finding unique solutions to unique and difficult structural problems, forensic engineering, innovation in the business of engineering, real estate, and making structural engineering understandable and accessible to the public.
Joe is a Fellow of the Structural Engineering Institute of the American Society of Civil Engineers and a Fellow of the American Society of Civil Engineers, and is past Chair of the SEI Business Practices Committee and Business and Professional Activities Division. Joe is a member of the SEI Board of Governors, as well as SEI National President 2020-2021.
Joe received a Bachelor of Engineering degree in Civil Engineering, with a specialization in Construction Management, and a Master of Engineering degree in Structural Engineering, both from Stevens Institute of Technology. Joe is a licensed professional engineer in 28 states and is certified by the Structural Engineering Certification Board.
In addition to his professional activities, Joe also served as president of the Stevens Institute of Technology Alumni Association and is currently on the Board of Trustees of Stevens Institute of Technology. He also served five years on the Board of Governors of the Mountain Lakes Club and Buildings and Grounds Committee of the Lakeland Hills Family YMCA, as well as currently chairing the Mountain Lakes Economic Development Committee. Joe has also coached Lacrosse at the youth, high school, and college levels.
About the Host: Nick Heim, P.E.
Nick Heim, P.E., is a civil engineer with six years of experience in the repair and restoration of existing structures, and host of the AEC Engineering and Technology Podcast (AECTECH), where he brings valuable insights and expertise to listeners worldwide.
Nick’s interests lie at the intersection between the built world and technology, and he can be found looking for the ever-changing answer to the question, “How can we do this better?” Nick can be found on LinkedIn, producing content about use of technologies in his civil engineering career and small business.
Sources/References:
- Structural Workshop
- New York City Department of Buildings (DOB)
- Local Law 11 – A New York City law related to facade inspections.
- Local Law 126 – A New York City law related to parking structure inspections.
- SB 326 – A California state bill related to balcony inspections.
- Connect with Joe DiPompeo, P.E., SECB, F.SEI, F.ASCE, on LinkedIn
- AEC PM Connect
We would love to hear any questions you might have or stories you can share on how you enhance building inspections with tech solutions.
Please leave your comments, feedback, or questions in the section below.
To your success,
Nick Heim, P.E.
Host of the AEC Engineering and Technology Podcast
