When are structural surveys for domestic properties required?
A structural survey is an in-depth assessment of a building’s structure that’s carried out by a qualified structural engineer. Following a visual inspection of the property, and further tests if needed, the structural surveyor provides a detailed report that describes any defects that have been discovered and makes recommendations for repairs and improvements.
Though people often get them mixed up, structural surveys for domestic properties are not the same thing as snag inspections (which are final checks for new build properties) or mortgage valuation surveys (when lenders assess whether a property is worth the purchase price). A structural survey focuses on the stability and safety of the building.
This involves checking load-bearing components – from the foundations, walls, and roof to the brickwork, floors, ceilings, and windows – for signs of structural damage. Any defects could impact planned works or compromise the building’s structural integrity, potentially rendering it unsafe without timely maintenance and repairs.
These inspections are also carried out on commercial developments – while buildings for commercial use generally have greater structural demands than buildings for residential use, the process of structural surveys for commercial properties is very similar to those for domestic properties.
So, when might you need a domestic property structural survey completed by experts like RD Engineering Associates, and how can this service benefit you as a property owner or buyer?
Why would a domestic property need a structural survey?
Depending on how well they were constructed, buildings can stay standing and remain fully functional for a very long time. However, they don’t last forever – and the older the property, the more likely it is to develop structural issues due to deterioration over time or overdue maintenance.
For example, over 20% of properties in England were built before 1919, making a significant proportion of homes over 100 years old. Aside from the effects of decades of wear and tear, such buildings were constructed long before modern techniques and safety regulations were developed, so they may not have been updated effectively.
For example, historic buildings from before the Second World War – whether listed or not – and any older properties that have been renovated or converted since may have structural issues. This includes houses with extra rooms or buildings, converted shops or offices, and barn conversions (plus similar structures like mills, lighthouses, or boathouses).
Of course, even newer buildings can have latent structural defects if the architectural plans or construction work weren’t up to standard. In any case, there are many reasons to schedule a structural survey for a domestic property, with the most common including:
- General property condition checks – Maybe you’ve noticed cracks in the walls or a sloping floor? An inspection can identify any underlying causes for concern.
- Property renovation plans – If you want to add an extension or convert parts of an existing building for a different use, you’ll need to assess its suitability first.
- Buying a property – Whether it’s pre-1919 or newer, you’ll want a thorough survey to confirm the building’s condition before committing to a property purchase.
- Selling a property – Potential buyers need full confidence that the property is structurally sound, and repairs may be necessary before putting it up for sale.
How a domestic property survey can help you
After booking a domestic property survey, home owners or buyers will receive a detailed report that summarises the findings of the building inspection, highlighting any structural problems that need to be fixed. Structural engineers can also make recommendations and provide cost estimates for specific repairs to bring the building up to the required safety standards.
If you want to make a long-term investment like buying, selling, or structurally altering a residential property, an in-depth survey is essential, as this professional advice will help with:
- Making informed decisions – Knowing the full condition of the property will help you decide whether or not to proceed with a sale, purchase, or renovation accordingly.
- Budgeting for repairs – A survey report can catch structural issues before they get any worse, helping you to fix them now and avoid spiralling expenses in the future.
- Gaining peace of mind – Even if the inspection reveals structural defects, the report can advise you on repair work, so you can relax after this has been completed.
Not only can this valuable information about the building’s condition give buyers negotiating power and help sellers avoid legal issues, but it’s especially helpful for planning home renovations.
The best part is that if you come to RD Engineering for a home structural survey, you can then count on us to oversee structural repairs or help you plan structural alterations. Offering a full range of structural engineering services, we can help you keep your home safe and maintain its property value.
Where to get a domestic structural survey
To arrange a residential structural survey, you’ll need to find a chartered surveyor or qualified structural engineer in your area to inspect your property and provide a comprehensive report.
Here at RD Engineering, our experienced team has conducted surveys and completed reports on all kinds of properties at a variety of scales. Whether you’re buying or selling a domestic property, planning alterations, or just want peace of mind that your home is safe, you can count on us.
To arrange a domestic structural survey, get in touch by calling 01257 445 010, filling out our online enquiry form, or sending an email directly to info@rd-engineering.co.uk.
Let us know your concerns and which services you’re looking for, and we’ll get back to you as promptly as possible to set up an appointment at a time that’s convenient for you.