Are you worried because you can see cracks in your walls, or you fear your property may be suffering from subsidence then you would need a structural survey to be carried out?

A structural survey will include an inspection of your property both internally and externally and all visible elements of the property will be assessed to determine the condition of the structure. Our engineers have experience in both domestic and commercial properties whether you require a full structural survey or just require looking at a specific problem. Full structural surveys are highly recommended for older properties which might need repairs. A structural survey will describe the condition of each element of the house and identify the property’s defects, their apparent cause, the urgency of repair, maintenance options and may also include an approximate cost of repair. Not carrying out a survey can put your property at risk if you are intended to buy a property with unknown conditions and no previous defect surveys available.

At Structural Hub ltd we usually carry out condition surveys which include a visual observation of the property and all exposed elements including roofs, walls, floors, windows and doors, chimneys, cellars, garages, and outbuildings. You can request that certain areas are included to cover particular concerns that you may have about the property. A full structural survey can be carried out on request.

Here is an indicative list of the aspects that are included in a Structural Survey:

• Structural defects and what they could mean
• Results of tests for damp in the walls
• Alterations to supporting walls
• Presence of hazardous materials (e.g. asbestos)
• Evidence of subsidence
• Damage to masonry and roof
• Damage to timbers
• Large trees close to the property
• Woodworm, dry rot, and other damage to timbers
• The conditions of existing damp proofing, insulation, and advice on non-tested drainage
• Information on the materials used to build the property and any relevant technical information
• Recommendations for further investigations on the property

When the survey has been completed, we will produce a final report which will reveal whether the inspection has discovered any major and minor defects. The report will identify and describe the problems and their cause, provide recommendations for further investigation and an indication of repair costs, and state what could happen if the problem is not remedied.