Building Pathology is the process of determining the initial root cause of a building component failure through the use of nondestructive analysis of the building in a holistic nature (i.e., looking at how all of the building components and systems work together). Solutions include correcting or eliminating the root cause through treatment and/or repair to the root cause and related effects.

Correctly used, Building Pathology can eliminate reoccurring problems, save historic materials, and allow the user to manage and perform building maintenance and repair in a cost effective manner. 

The Elements of Facilities Pathology include: