Structural Inspections - Building Defects and Repairs

We undertake structural inspections on a variety of buildings and structures from domestic properties to commercial properties and reinforced concrete structures. We often deal with domestic structural issues arising during the conveyancing process where we endeavor to give quick, cost effective advice. We have considerable experience of dealing with historic buildings.

In all cases our approach is always the same; to view the structure sympathetically in context with its age, original building materials and method of construction. This is especially true of historic foundations, where they might be quite shallow. While they don't comply with modern standards they may be working quite adequately.

Initially, we undertake a visual examination of the building were we record structural defects, review existing information and check ground conditions using the British Geological Survey. Our experienced engineers can usually determine the likely causes of the defects and make recommendations as to whether structural repairs are likely to be required and if further intrusive investigations should be carried out.

If intrusive investigation work is required, we will define what needs to be done and organise the works including any testing requirements on the structural materials. We also undertake a variety of monitoring work to confirm structural stability in the cases where we believe movement has ceased and is not progressive

Often, we are able to specify a small amount of sensitive repair works to restore the building to equilibrium through vegetation management in areas of shrinkable clay subsoils. We will always consider alternative designs to keep remedial works and costs to a minimum, with historic building this will involve careful collaboration with the conservation officers to keep the amount of intrusive work to a minimum.

Typical types of projects where we recommend remedial works are as follows:

• Subsidence including effects from shrinkable clays
• Historic timber framed buildings
• Effects of flood damage
• Reinforced concrete defects and repairs
• Cast Iron, Wrought Iron and structural steel structures
• Effects of fire damage
• Effects of building materials deterioration in timber, masonry
• Mass concrete, raft or piled underpinning systems