The owner contacted SERL following a recommendation from their surveyor, who endorsed us for our renowned expertise and independence.
The client required our expertise in structural engineers’ reports, particularly for the Putney area in South-West London. The purpose of the report was to support their application for building insurance to help them negotiate better terms with the current owner.
In response to the client’s requirements our qualified Chartered Structural Engineer recommended a General Structural Inspection (GSI) 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.
This property is a typical mid-terrace family home. Its architectural style indicates it was built around 1900. The house features the traditional capital ‘L’ shape, with the main living spaces situated in the front section and additional rooms located in the narrower rear extension. It is situated on a level site directly south of the River Thames.
Based on our geological surveys, the site is likely composed of Kempton Park Gravel overlaying London Clay, with alluvial soils from the River Thames found nearby to the north.
Our inspection showed that overall it displayed the normal range of historic movement that one would expect of a property of this age.
The construction consists of standard solid brick external walls, suspended timber upper floors, and roof framing. The ground floor may include a combination of suspended timber and possibly solid concrete. These features are typical of a building of this age, which means they do not comply with modern standards such as current Building Regulations. We mention this to set realistic expectations, similar to purchasing a vintage car versus a new one.
We were satisfied that the property was sound and had no modern day structural issues. The usual minor cracks that appear and need regular redecorating do not compromise the property’s structural strength or stability.
We were able to provide a positive report for the client. Based on the information provided, there seems to be no reason preventing them from obtaining building insurance in the usual way. The house shares the same construction and ground conditions as tens of thousands of similar homes.