Integrating Building Information Modelling (BIM) for improved assessment and seismic evaluation of existing buildings: a case study

Abstract This paper presents a project case study on the seismic evaluation of an existing office building in Aceh, Indonesia, originally constructed in 1994 and having survived the 2004 Aceh earthquake and tsunami. The study explores the integration of traditional and modern survey techniques with Building Information Modelling (BIM). Given the limitations of older seismic codes and the challenges in evaluating existing structures, this research highlights the importance of utilizing advanced digital technologies, such as LiDAR and ground-penetrating radar (GPR), in conjunction with BIM. Within a span of three weeks, the project team developed a comprehensive digital model of the building, enabling detailed structural analysis to identify vulnerabilities that might compromise its seismic resilience. The paper discusses the methodologies applied, the building’s seismic performance, and the financial implications of proposed retrofitting strategies. The integration of BIM significantly enhanced project coordination, accelerated delivery, and improved documentation accuracy. This study highlights the advantages of adopting BIM to overcome challenges in evaluating existing structures and highlights the need for increased awareness and training in evolving standards to ensure the safety of older buildings in earthquake-prone regions.