Book excerpt: "This book is designed for architects and engineers who need to evaluate existing buildings for a new use or for continuing a current use. It details each step of the evaluation process using an easy-to-follow and easy-to-implement approach that greatly reduces the possibility of unexpected costs and setbacks. Moreover, the book covers every part of the building itself, from interior and exterior structures to systems and materials." "Illustrations throughout the book will help you visualize and perform key procedures. In addition, the authors examine building evaluation issues for structures of different scales, such as medium and small commercial structures and residential buildings." "Most important, the authors help you assess the financial viability of a proposed adaptive reuse or preservation project, helping you and potential investors decide whether the proposed project offers a desired return on investment."--Jacket.