Community Service through Building Defect Inspection: Assessing Building Conditions of Orphanages in Cikarang, Indonesia

Authors

  • Seng Hansen Civil Engineering Department, Engineering Faculty, President University, Cikarang, Indonesia
  • BMAS Anaconda Bangkara Civil Engineering Department, Engineering Faculty, President University, Cikarang, Indonesia
  • Lydia Darmiyanti Civil Engineering Department, Engineering Faculty, President University, Cikarang, Indonesia
  • Ivan Imanuel Civil Engineering Department, Engineering Faculty, President University, Cikarang, Indonesia
  • Prihartono Civil Engineering Department, Engineering Faculty, President University, Cikarang, Indonesia
  • Eddy T. Sudjatmiko Civil Engineering Department, Engineering Faculty, President University, Cikarang, Indonesia
  • Ika Bali Civil Engineering Department, Engineering Faculty, President University, Cikarang, Indonesia

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.32502/altifani.v5i3.983

Keywords:

building defect inspection, civil engineering, community service, orphanage

Abstract

This community service project was conducted by civil engineering students and lecturers from President University to assess the physical condition of two orphanages in Cikarang, Indonesia. The project focused on identifying visible building defects that may pose risks to safety, comfort, or health. Using non-invasive methods such as visual inspection, photographic documentation, and staff interviews, the students evaluated structural components, material conditions, and environmental factors at Rumah Harapan Graha Asri and Panti Asuhan Rumah Singgah Anak Berkat. Key findings included peeling paint, moisture-induced wall cracks, mold growth, unstable plywood flooring, and deteriorating wooden staircases. These issues were largely attributed to prolonged exposure to humidity, poor construction practices, and the absence of regular maintenance. The proposed actionable recommendations include waterproofing treatments, structural reinforcement, mold remediation, safety improvements, and the implementation of a simple maintenance plan. This project highlights the importance of building defect assessments in community-based facilities and demonstrates how civil engineering students and lecturers can contribute meaningfully to public welfare. It also served as a practical learning experience, allowing students to apply classroom knowledge in a real-world context. The outcomes reinforce the need to integrate social responsibility and technical training into engineering education.

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Published

31-12-2025

How to Cite

Hansen, S., Bangkara, B. A., Darmiyanti, L., Imanuel, I., Prihartono, Sudjatmiko, E. T., & Bali, I. (2025). Community Service through Building Defect Inspection: Assessing Building Conditions of Orphanages in Cikarang, Indonesia. Altifani Journal: International Journal of Community Engagement, 5(3), 220–227. https://doi.org/10.32502/altifani.v5i3.983

Issue

Vol. 5 No. 3 (2025): Altifani Journal: International Journal of Community Engagement

Section

Articles

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