What is defined as any moving variable load applied to a structure, including elements such as weight from people or snow pressure on a roof?

The term that describes any moving variable load applied to a structure, including elements such as weight from people or snow pressure on a roof, is live load. Live loads are temporary and can change over time, such as the presence of occupants in a building, furniture, or changing weather conditions like snowfall. Unlike dead loads, which are constant and include the weight of structural elements like beams and walls, live loads are transient and can vary in intensity and duration.

This distinction is crucial for assessing structural integrity and ensuring that buildings can safely accommodate the changing demands placed upon them by their occupants and environmental factors. Understanding live loads is essential for assessors in evaluating properties and ensuring compliance with safety regulations.