Seismic Evaluation of Existing Buildings (ASCE 31-03), provides a three-tiered process for seismic evaluation of existing buildings in any level of seismicity. Buildings are evaluated to either the Life Safety or Immediate Occupancy Performance Level.

This standard is intended to serve as a nationally applicable tool for design professionals, code officials, and building owners looking to seismically evaluate existing buildings. A major portion is dedicated to instructing the evaluating design professional on how to determine if a building is adequately designed and constructed to resist seismic forces.

The design of mitigation measures is not addressed in this standard. ASCE 31-03 is intended to replace FEMA 310, Handbook for Seismic Evaluation of Buildings -- A Prestandard (FEMA, 1998). All aspects of building performance are considered and defined in terms of structural, nonstructural, and foundation/geologic hazard issues. This standard was written to: reflect advancements in technology; incorporate the experience of design professionals; incorporate lessons learned during recent earthquakes; be compatible with FEMA 356, Prestandard and Commentary for the Seismic Rehabilitation of Buildings (FEMA, 2000c); be suitable for adoption in building codes and contracts; be nationally applicable; and provide evaluation techniques.