Condition assessments are one of the cornerstones of asset management. The knowledge of the actual condition of assets is important to operate in today’s complex world of property and facilities management.

“Condition assessments give organisations the information that they need to plan maintenance, mitigate risk and make cost-effective decisions,” explains Pieter Vlok, Division Head: Strategic Facilities Projects at Afroteq. “Knowing the state of the asset lays the foundation of management. It helps organisations plan for CAPEX expenditure over the long term, the future of assets, remain compliant, as well as protect people and property”.

Information Management for the Entire Lifecycle

South Africa is implementing SANS 19650 based on ISO 19650 which will change the way that projects are delivered and managed. The standard ensures that maintenance related information is captured and managed from the feasibility and design stages, through construction and on to operations and maintenance. Furthermore, Building Information Modelling (BIM) is now being introduced.

“Designs that include maintenance-forward thinking through BIM during the early project stages, creates a ‘digital twin’ or virtual replica of physical assets with sufficient detail to allow maintenance from the system. This will bring about operational efficiency, the standardisation of multiple sites and long-term cost savings,” Vlok says.

Regular Evaluation of Condition: Not Just a Compliance Issue

A thorough condition assessment paints a true picture of asset performance. This helps to plan preventive and corrective maintenance activities, distribute the CAPEX over several financial years and detect possible risks early on, including legal compliance. By putting this information into SAP, SAGE, and similar financial systems, budgeting and reporting can be synchronised.

“It's much easier to manage multiple assets when you have a detailed, reliable asset register, which is up-to-date and reconciled with the bookkeeping records for these assets,” he explains.

Legal and Regulatory Imperatives

For public assets, condition assessments are often a legal requirement. Public property is required by the Government Immovable Asset Management Act (GIAMA) to be assessed regularly to ensure health and safety under the Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA).  Assessments for social housing and certain new developments are also compulsory at the Social Housing Regulatory Authority and the National Home Builders Registration Council, among other regulators.

“Employers have a duty of care toward their employees and the public. Condition assessments help them meet that responsibility,” Vlok explains.

The Benefits of a Condition Assessment

• Informed maintenance: Prioritise repairs and optimise CAPEX planning.
• Dispute resolution: Provide objective reference points for tenants or stakeholders.
• Insurance claims: Document pre-existing conditions to simplify claims.
• Risk mitigation: Reduce fines, penalties and emergency repair costs.

Professional Expertise Matters

Accurate condition assessments require the skills of asset managers, engineers, architects and quantity surveyors. SAAMA-registered companies and practitioners provide assurance that assessments meet recognised professional standards.

A Strategic Tool that Maximises Asset Value

Condition assessments are more than a regulatory requirement. They are a strategic tool that empower organisations to optimise asset performance, reduce operational costs, and protect people and property.

For organisations looking to maximise the value of their assets, partnering with industry professionals is critical. Afroteq provides end-to-end asset and programme management services, including detailed condition assessments, digital asset management, and compliance advisory. Working with experienced professionals ensures assessments are accurate, actionable, and aligned with both operational and legal requirements, thereby helping you make smarter decisions and protect your investments for the long term.

“Condition assessments are not just about compliance. They create a solid foundation for sustainable, efficient and safe asset management”, Vlok concludes.