What it is
An inspection by a structural engineer, focused on whether the structure is performing as it should. It looks at the load-bearing elements, the evidence of movement, and the condition of what is carrying the building.
How it differs from a homebuyer survey
A homebuyer report covers the property broadly, including finishes, services and general condition, and typically flags structural concerns for further investigation. A structural survey is that further investigation. If a surveyor has told you to consult a structural engineer, this is what they meant.
What it establishes
Whether cracking is structurally significant. Whether previous alterations were adequately supported. Whether there is evidence of movement and whether it appears ongoing. What, if anything, needs doing, and how urgently.
What it does not do
It does not open up the structure. A non-intrusive survey sees what is visible, and there are things that only opening up or monitoring will establish. Where that is the case we say so rather than implying more certainty than the inspection supports.
Unsupported previous alterations
One of the commonest findings. Walls removed without calculations, chimney breasts taken out with nothing carrying the stack above, beams that are undersized or poorly bearing. These are frequently decades old and frequently undocumented.
The useful outcome
Often the report says the building is fine. That is a perfectly good result and worth having in writing, particularly at the point of sale or when a lender has raised a query.
Tell us what you are building.
Send the drawings or describe the project. We confirm scope, deliverables and a realistic timescale.
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