Why you might need a structural engineers report (part one)

There could be various reasons that you might need a structural engineers report but typically it is to give a professional opinion of a building’s structural condition prior to its purchase, usually because of a valuation or general condition survey. This is often in connection with a mortgage application where it may be recommended that an engineer is consulted as a structural problem has been highlighted. Whether it is a home you are purchasing or one you already own, you may find you need the services of a structural engineer.

But what is a structural problem? Put simply, structural problems are anything that affects the structural integrity of a property. This can be due to poor design, building materials, building work, or structural faults that have developed since the property was built. It may even be affected by more than one structural problem which could be connected in some way, or even caused by each other.

What are the typical signs of structural damage? There are various indicators of structural damage that our engineers will look for:

 Cracks, leans, bulges and distortions to walls and ceilings – not every wall or ceiling crack indicates structural damage. Large cracks together with a sagging ceiling or cracks above doorways in a step pattern could be a sign of a more serious problem.

 Uneven gaps around windows and doors – walls with windows and doors are more vulnerable to pressure because of the holes that have been cut into them.

 Sagging, slopes or cracking to floors – movements in a property’s foundation will be apparent when inspecting the flooring for sagging, sloping, or cracking. The greater the movement, the more likely the floors will show signs of structural imperfections.

At Structural Engineers Report after our inspection we will provide you with a written report and will always aim to give a clear and simple explanation of any problems in terms of their cause and how to rectify them. Perhaps more importantly, if there are no significant causes for concern, we will reassure you and hopefully enable your sale or purchase to proceed without further delay. We will identify whether the visible defects are longstanding or provide evidence of more serious ongoing structural problems. Our recommendations will usually contain an estimate of the cost of any repairs, although detailed quotations should be obtained from suitable contractors before making any financial commitment.

See part 2 (coming soon) for signs of structural damage to the roof, brick, concrete, and external cracking