A vendor reached out to SERL upon their estate agent’s recommendation, who was handling their case and had endorsed us for our renowned expertise and independence.
The client required our specialised knowledge in structural engineering reports, particularly in the Weybridge area of Surrey. This need arose after the buyer’s surveyor raised concerns about inadequate roof support.
To secure mortgage approval, the vendor recognised the need of engaging a chartered structural engineer for the requisite expert evaluation.
In response to the client’s requirements our qualified Chartered Structural Engineer recommended a Specific Structural Inspection (SSI) report.
SERL offers two types of structural reports:
1) A localised, specific, and limited Specific Structural Inspection (SSI) report or a Structural Engineers Defect Report.
2) A broader General Structural Inspection Report (GSI) or Structural Engineers General Movement Report which focuses only on matters of cracking and movement.
A specific Inspection Report was appropriate on this occasion to just look at the roof as there were no other issues.
Our Chartered structural engineer found on inspection that the pitched roof of the property showed no signs of structural distress, yet lacked mid-height purlin supports.
While the purlins were intact, the purlin props were likely removed years ago to accommodate roof storage and water tanks.
We concluded that the structural issues were minor and recommended the addition of a few routine purlin props as a ‘desirable improvement’.
Our report to the client reassured the prospective buyer that these remedial works were optional and non-urgent, with an estimated cost of £1,000 – £2,000.