Structural Inspection in Northern Ireland

A structural inspection is usually only performed when a structural defect or issue is discovered or suspected. Normally during the procedure of a Home Buyer’s Survey if any structural problems are suspected they will be noted for additional investigation by a professional structural engineer, who’ll be able to recognise the specific problem and advise on the practical techniques to fix. When there is a more substantial suspected problem or the building’s background is especially poor, a general structural inspection may be completed which will require an inspection of the entire structure and all load-bearing components of the building, alongside inspections of the surrounding site and any potential impacts it could have, such as drainage issues or any trees near the foundations of the building.

Structural surveys can also be undertaken on an ad hoc basis on existing buildings if you suspect any type of structural defect, such as cracking in walls, sagging of ceilings or roofs, or subsistence around the foundations of the building. When looking for a structural engineer, look for Chartered Surveyors who will be members of either the Institution of Structural Engineers or the Institution of Civil Engineers.