The Physical Life Calculator tool is for appraisers and floodplain administrators.

This tool was developed by Craig Langston, Professor of Construction and Facilities Management, Bond University, Queensland, Australia, as a component in his study of building obsolescence culminating in his 2011 conference paper entitled, “Estimating the useful life of buildings.”

Professor Langston explains that his physical life calculator algorithm assumes a base life of 100 years, and then adds or deducts points (years) according to the responses to questions. It is similar in concept to the Living to 100 Life Expectancy Calculator that predicts human life span based on extensive medical and empirical data. Some conservatism is applied to the estimate and the forecast is rounded down to one of the following outcomes: 25, 50, 75, 100, 150, 200, 250 or 300 years. The template is unsuitable for temporary structures or for iconic monuments, both of which require specialist judgment.