A Structural Engineers Report is a specialist report on the strength, safety, and stability of the skeleton structure of a property. The skeleton structure includes the foundations, load bearing walls and roof.
A Structural Engineers Report can be required to satisfy a third party such as a mortgage lender or insurer. Alternatively, a surveyor might recommend a Structural Engineer’s Report if they have identified a structural issue which requires a specialist opinion. Structural issues should be disclosed when selling a property.
Some purchasers and vendors will commission a Structural Engineer’s Report to obtain reassurance about a property or to get an expert opinion before making an important decision. Forewarned is forearmed. Understanding the issues will assist in making an informed decision.
SERL offers two categories of Structural Engineers Reports in London. One report is designed to assess a specific structural issue, the other is designed to assess the overall general structural condition of the property. The scope of each report will vary according to the requirements of the brief.
There are commonly two types of Structural Engineers Reports: General Structural Inspection (GSI) and Specific Structural Inspection (SSI) or Single Defect Report.
If the property has many cracks or defects, or multiple signs of movement you need a Structural Engineer’s General Structural Inspection (GSI), also known as a General Movement report.
If the property has a single defect, such as a crack in a wall, that requires investigation you need a Specific Structural Inspection (SSI) or Single Defect Report.
It is important to clarify with the Structural Engineer exactly what needs to be checked in the property.
The fee for a Structural Engineer’s Report in London will vary depending on the location and size of the property and scope of the work required.
SERL’s fees are in the region of:
The lump sum fee for a Specific Structural Inspection (SSI or Specific Defect Report) of, for example, one crack in one bay window, starts at £ 1,250+vat plus £250 per additional structural matter looked at, such as a separate problem with the roof. Fees also vary depending on geographical location and access arrangements which can add considerable extra time.
Fees for a General Structural Inspection (GSI or General Movement Report) start at £2000+vat for flats and small houses up to 1500 square feet and approximately £1 per square foot over and above 2000 square feet. For example, for larger properties, £2,500+vat for a 2500 square foot house, and so on, rounded to the nearest £250. Fees also vary depending on geographical location and access arrangements which can add considerable extra time.
Our report fees include the briefing, site inspection and written report as well as associated travel, insurance, overhead and other costs. SERL and our affiliate POLE are specialists in structural reporting for the residential property sector.
Signs of structural problems most commonly involve cracks of some sort. These can include cracks in external and internal walls, sagging floors or ceilings, and sticking doors or windows.
Our Structural Engineers Reports will provide:
If you are planning to appoint a Structural Engineer for a property inspection you should ensure the Engineer is a Chartered Member of the Institution of Structural Engineers (FIStructE, MIStructE) and registered CEng. Only these qualifications are guaranteed to meet the qualification requirements of all lenders and insurers.
Carry out a directory search of a professional industry body such as The Institution of Structural Engineers (IStructE.Org) and choose a local firm of consulting Chartered Structural Engineers. Make sure the firm has experience in preparing Structural Engineers Reports for properties in London. Look for case studies on their website that deal with similar structural issues to yours in London, so you know the firm specialises in residential work and has the relevant expertise you require.
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SERL’s highly skilled Chartered Structural Engineers work across London providing a fast, local service with in-depth local knowledge. Every Structural Engineer in our team is chartered with qualifications C Eng and either MIStructE or higher.
As well as Structural Engineers reports, SERL offers formal Expert Reports for litigation. Our firm is backed by comprehensive seven figure professional indemnity insurance.
SERL specialises in producing Structural Engineers Reports; and we undertake Structural Engineers Reports almost every day of the week. Our Chartered Structural Engineers have been working in the industry for over four decades. Every report is carried out by a Chartered Structural Engineer with the essential qualifications CEng MIStructE, recognised by all mortgage lenders and insurers.
SERL provides confidence through:
With a dedicated team of locally based Structural Engineers, SERL offers some of the fastest turnaround times in London. We may be able to offer a next-day site visit but will almost always be able to attend within one week’s notice. The completed written report will normally be issued within 48 hours, and often the following day.
At SERL we sometimes use a medical analogy to describe how a Structural Engineer operates. Imagine the building is like the patient, the Surveyor is the doctor, and the Chartered Structural Engineer is the specialist consultant. Any structural defects noticed by the Surveyor are referred to a Chartered Structural Engineer for a closer investigation. The consultant will have the in-depth knowledge required to accurately identify the cause and treatment. For instance, if your GP (the Surveyor) suspects you have fractured a bone they would refer you to an orthopaedic consultant (the Structural Engineer).
Highly experienced Structural Engineers like us at SERL can swiftly identify the most likely cause of most structural problems. This ability comes from dealing with thousands of similar cases across London over the last 40 years. We recognise and understand the causes of structural issues as they are shared by many older properties in London.
Our Structural Engineers focus on assessing the structural integrity and health of a property. We identify any issues related to the loadbearing walls and components which form the ‘bones and joints’ of a building. Most serious defects are contained within this skeleton structure and inspecting the pointing and decoration can help to determine the nature and age of a structural problem.
Yes, SERL can offer a Certificate of Structural Adequacy along with our Structural Engineers Reports where appropriate. However, this type of Certificate needs clarification as some Surveyors and lending Institutions have begun to request them without understanding their limitations.
A Certificate of Structural Adequacy is a one-page statement which summarises the SERL report. It will indicate whether the inspected structure is satisfactory or whether remedial works are required and what those works are, in general terms.
Generally, a structural engineer deals with buildings and, in our case, specialises in residential property, whereas a civil engineer traditionally deals with much larger infrastructure projects such as roads, railways and harbours.
The early years of training for both professions is broadly similar, but structural engineers specialise in calculations and structural analysis. In contrast, civil engineers receive a more wide-ranging education, which includes matters such as environmental issues.
Both structural and civil engineers are part of respected professional bodies recognised as leading chartered institutions. However, chartered structural engineers often possess the most relevant experience for addressing residential buildings and their associated defects.
Most lending institutions and insurance companies now specifically require a chartered structural engineer whereas in the past, both civil engineers’ and structural engineers’ reports were commonly accepted.
Clients usually seek consultancy advice from a chartered structural engineer for diagnosing defects such as cracking or subsidence. Or during the design phase of new properties or extensions. In the construction industry, the distinction is clear: builders and contractors are responsible for ‘building’ and ‘constructing.’ While consulting structural engineers, often working with architects, provide design specifications and supervision.
Reputable structural engineering firms, including ours, uphold professional indemnity insurance to support their guidance. Conversely, builders and contractors do not carry such insurance for design and advisory services. In residential projects, structural engineers are seen as specialists, akin to an orthopaedic consultant versus a general practitioner. Structural engineers address technical issues related to structural integrity and safety, whereas maintenance and repair issues are managed by chartered building surveyors.
For structural alterations such as wall removals, loft conversions, side extensions, basements, or new houses, engaging a chartered structural engineer is essential. Architects serve as the lead consultant, managing the overall design, while structural engineers focus on beam and foundation designs to ensure the skeleton structure is strong and fit for purpose.
Structural engineers provide design calculations and prepare technical drawings that comply with Building Regulations. Note that structural regulations are one aspect of the broader set of regulations, which number about fifteen to twenty. These are collectively handled by architects or services engineers.
A structural engineer is normally called upon if you have a concern regarding cracks or structural defects which might impact the strength, safety, and stability of your property. A structural engineer will have more specialist knowledge than a surveyor.
Alternatively, when it concerns design work, whether extensions or internal alterations, a structural engineer will carry out the appropriate calculations under the Building Regulations, working closely with your architect and builder.
When engaging a structural engineer, it is important to formalise the appointment in writing rather than relying on verbal agreements. A qualified chartered engineer typically has standard terms and conditions suited for residential clients, which, with their help, can guide you through the process.
The structural engineer’s proposal should be straightforward and free from technical jargon. It must clearly outline the professional fees, detailing what’s included and excluded. In addition, ensure the structural engineer offers a variety of services tailored to your needs, allowing you to select the most suitable options.
The proposal should specify whether there is a fixed lump sum fee for a particular project or if the services will be charged at an hourly rate subject to future adjustments. If the latter is the case, the engineer should provide a realistic estimate to assist with budgeting.
In most cases, the answer is likely ‘yes’. This is due to several important considerations.
If a wall is likely to be load bearing, it is crucial to consult an expert rather than relying on a builder (with all due respect to builders). Removing the wall might require invasive exploratory work, such as taking up floorboards or removing ceiling plaster, to verify construction details.
For leasehold properties, documenting changes, including those to non load bearing walls, is essential. Landlord consent is normally required, and failing to obtain it can lead to issues when selling the property. Load bearing walls typically require a supporting beam and/or columns at either end.
Additionally, if the wall is load bearing, the builder must notify the Local Authority and submit a Building Regulations application. This process normally requires a structural calculation and drawing.
The choice between an architect and a structural engineer often depends on the project’s needs. Generally, an architect develops the overarching design vision, while a structural engineer provides the technical guidance needed to realise that vision. In some cases, especially when engineering challenges influence costs or decisions, involving a structural engineer early in the process is advisable, however, this should not replace the architect’s role. Architects will recommend consulting a structural engineer at the appropriate time. For issues related to structural defects, reports, or decisions before purchasing, a structural engineer is usually consulted first.
Once you have identified the need for a structural engineer’s expertise, selecting a reputable Structural Engineering company is crucial. Your search should start with a Chartered Structural Engineer, who is fully qualified and holding the accreditations ‘CEng’ (Chartered Engineer) and ‘MIStructE’ or ‘FIStructE’, indicating membership or fellowship in the Institution of Structural Engineers.
Consulting someone within the construction industry, such as a local builder, estate agent, solicitor, or architect, can be the best approach. Be clear about requiring a chartered structural engineer, as some builders collaborate with less qualified engineers for cost reasons. If you lack industry contacts, you can visit the Institution of Structural Engineers website, where you can enter your location and project interests to find suitable members.
Alternatively, you can search the internet using terms like “chartered structural engineer near me,” but be sure to review online feedback carefully and avoid solely relying on sponsored search results. After identifying a potential chartered structural engineer, confirm their relevant experience, either through their website or by requesting client testimonials.
It is important that any structural engineer’s report is conducted by a qualified chartered professional, not a junior team member whose work is later approved by a senior engineer. This common practice can lead to unwanted and predictable consequences.