Post-occupancy evaluation: When is it typically administered?

• A. During construction
• B. Within a week of occupancy
• C. At least a year after occupancy
• D. Before occupancy

Answer: (C)

A post-occupancy evaluation aims to learn how a building actually performs once people are using it. That requires time after occupancy to experience real use, seasonal variations, and maintenance in action. Because of this, it’s typically conducted after occupants have been in the space for a substantial period—at least a year after occupancy. Shorter timeframes, like during construction, before people move in, or just a week after moving in, wouldn’t reveal long-term performance, comfort, or usage patterns. Waiting at least a year gives a meaningful snapshot of how the design works in practice and where improvements or adjustments are needed.