ABSTRACT
Before the 1980s, the key issue for retrofitting of building structures was the assessment and strengthening of old houses. After the middle of the 1990s, however, structural assessment and strengthening for both old and new buildings is becoming more intensive due to the rapid development of the construction industry in China. Especially in the real estate market, privately owned houses have become a majority, and many disputes between house developer and house buyer have resulted. To solve these problems technically it is necessary to perform structural assessment and strengthening of building structures. In some cases the result of inspection and assessment of building structures is becoming an increasingly important basis for government officials to mediate the disputes in the real estate market.
