Construction error and human error
We specialise in identifying and reporting on structural defects caused by construction errors, poor workmanship, and human error. Our Chartered Structural Engineers provide expert structural reports and assessments to support insurance claims, legal disputes, and remedial construction projects.
Building defects, defective design or construction
Unfortunately, those who design and construct the buildings we use, very often make mistakes that later fall to you to resolve. Defective design is common in non-typical building types, non-typical environmental settings, or in developments where the building has been designed by people who are not sufficiently qualified in structural engineering. Defective construction is common where the job is being rushed, or where under-funding has resulted in disreputable contractors being employed to save money. Whatever the defect, it’s recommended to employ a chartered structural engineer such as all our engineers at Abbott Holliday Partnership, to assess the defect and ensure that you are given the correct information that will lead to the resolution of the issue.
Damage caused by vehicle impact
When a vehicle hits a load-bearing wall such as the external wall of a building or a retaining wall, and the structure hasn’t yet collapsed, there is imminent danger that it will do so soon, especially if the building or structure is still in use and its loading is variable. Please speak with us about doing a survey as soon as possible after the collision so that we can inspect all aspects of the structure and make a professional and reliable assessment about its safety. We can also provide expert witness services if the case finds its way to a legal hearing.
Faulty loft conversions
Many loft conversions are done by builders who lack the proper knowledge, experience and qualifications to make proper structural design considerations. Some are even converted by the home owners themselves. However, a habitable loft is very different in use compared to a roof space that may be used only for storage. Therefore, the floor may not be strong enough, causing sagging or collapse. The lateral restraint properties of the roof modifications may be insufficient, causing bowing or sloping of the load-bearing walls beneath. The change of use may also not have been approved by Building Control. Therefore, we can be called upon to inspect the structure and report on the faulty design and its remediation, so you can use the report in court or with your new contractors, or design a new structure so that the loft can be built so it is fit for purpose. We can provide CPR-compliant reports if the faulty party is taken to court, and we can also provide a full set of calculations for you to use with Building Control to get a certificate of compliance with Building Regulations.
