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pdurkin  
#1 Posted : 09 April 2010 15:48:33(UTC)
Rank: Forum user
pdurkin

This may seem like how long is a piece of string,but we have a portacabin at least 25 years old,definately showing it's age.The base is supported on metal axle type stands.The floor although carpeted shows signs of distortion.I need to have the supports checked but without doing that, is there any reference to the expected life of this type 'temporary' buiding? Regards,Paul
Karlm  
#2 Posted : 12 April 2010 09:05:59(UTC)
Rank: New forum user
Karlm

Depends on large number of factors, including original manufacturer, location, maintenance, use etc. but 25 years is a good innings. Base judgement on your own inspection, carry out an assessment for its use.
PH2  
#3 Posted : 12 April 2010 09:17:14(UTC)
Rank: Super forum user
PH2

According to the planning service, a building will NOT be considered temporary if it is occupied / used for more than 28 days: you've got away with it then!
PhilBeale  
#4 Posted : 12 April 2010 11:44:49(UTC)
Rank: Super forum user
PhilBeale

It will probably come down to how cost effective it is to get repaired compared to replacing it with a new building. It's life span could be affected by so many different factors weather, maintenance, use of the building, how it was looked after & deterioration due to unnoticed damage (water). Phil
pdurkin  
#5 Posted : 12 April 2010 13:41:53(UTC)
Rank: Forum user
pdurkin

Thanks All, No idea if there was a Portacabin plc!!Doubt if it was ever constructed to last this long,so do I have to wait for the base to fail? But,yes,I am having its supports checked and there certainly has been some deterioration due to water ingress.The outer base level is showing rot & delamination. It seems the landlords a Health Trust are hoping it lasts another 25 years !! Regards,Paul
PhilBeale  
#6 Posted : 12 April 2010 16:03:34(UTC)
Rank: Super forum user
PhilBeale

I guess it would come down to fit for purpose. if the floor is in poor condition that someone might take a plunge or their desks diappearse during the night into a big hole then maybe time to look at taking some action. but so long as there aren't any negative health effects then it could possible stay longer. although kepping staff in such a old deteriorating building could effect morale and possible health from any damp etc. phil
bob youel  
#7 Posted : 13 April 2010 07:37:00(UTC)
Rank: Super forum user
bob youel

It depends - some accountants / managers I know of would say that such a cabin etc should last for a 1000 years irrespective of its condition providing that they are not using it!
RayRapp  
#8 Posted : 13 April 2010 11:42:47(UTC)
Rank: Super forum user
RayRapp

Whether a building, porta cabin or not, is defined as a temporary building is normally dependant on whether it conforms to building regulations. If it does not conform to building regulations, then it is deemed to be a temporary building. I accept this may not be useful for your particular purpose.
bod212  
#9 Posted : 13 April 2010 11:57:53(UTC)
Rank: Forum user
bod212

Having worked on construction sites and the like I know from experience that the presence of asbestos containing materials are likely in 'portacabins', especially one this age. So factor this in when thinking about any refurbishment or indeed demolition and disposal.
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