Cracks in Structural Elements:

Cracks in walls, foundations, beams, or columns are often signs of underlying structural problems. These cracks can result from foundation movement, thermal expansion, or excessive loads, and they require immediate attention to prevent further damage. Hairline cracks may not be visible from photos and if the engineer does not visit the site, they will not be able to test the depth and movement of the crack.

Foundation Problems:

Engineers often discover signs of subsidence, heave, or uneven settlement in a building’s foundation. These issues can cause significant structural instability, leading to cracks and misalignment throughout the building. If, for example, a crack is caused by heave, a photo of the problem itself may not include the offending tree stump nearby the property for example, which might tell the engineer that the recently felled tree is no longer drawing moisture from the soil, causing the ground to swell and damage the property. The engineer may also need to take soil samples, which is impossible without a site visit.

Water Damage and Dampness:

Rising damp, penetrating damp, and timber rot are common issues that can severely weaken a building’s structural integrity. These problems are typically caused by moisture ingress, which can lead to deterioration of walls, floors, and foundations. On site, and engineer may wish to test the structural integrity of a timber structural member, for which he or she will need to push a test instrument into the wood. This wouldn’t be possible if the engineer didn’t visit the site.

Structural Movement:

Lateral movement, roof spread, and deflection in beams are indicators of serious structural issues. These movements can cause walls to bow, roofs to sag, and beams to bend, all of which compromise the safety of the structure. Deflection is not possible to measure from photos or a customer’s own drawings.

Corrosion and Deterioration:

Engineers often find corroded steel and deteriorating concrete during inspections. These issues are particularly concerning in reinforced concrete structures, where rusting steel can lead to cracking and weakening of the concrete. Often the nature of the corrosion needs to be tested at a basic level by scrutinising the surface of the affected structural member through touch, hence a site visit is needed.

Inadequate Structural Support:

Inspections may reveal undersized beams or columns, as well as improper load distribution. These issues mean that the structural elements are not strong enough to support the building’s weight, leading to potential collapse. Such elements need to be measured properly, requiring an engineer to be present with the appropriate measuring tools and instruments.

Incompatible Modifications:

If load-bearing walls have been removed or altered without proper support, or if extensions have been poorly integrated, engineers can identify these modifications as significant risks to the structure’s stability. Many factors need to be inspected on site in order for the engineer to reach their conclusion.

Subsidence and Soil Issues:

Issues like tree root damage or soil erosion can cause the ground beneath a building to shift, leading to foundation problems and structural instability. The cause needs to be investigated and when the engineer is on site, he or she may need to inspect nearby trees, other structures, nearby building work, underground drains and multiple other factors, to best determine the source of the issues.

Vibrational Damage:

Buildings located near heavy traffic or construction sites may experience damage from vibrations. Engineers can identify these issues, which often manifest as cracks or weakened structural elements. To do this, they may need to take measurements or collect data based on what is happening around the structure in question.

Thermal Movement:

Changes in temperature can cause materials to expand and contract, leading to cracks and movement in the structure. Engineers can assess the extent of this damage during a site visit, but they would be unable to comment on the ambient temperature changes without being at the site..

Poor Construction Practices:

Substandard construction practices, such as inadequate reinforcement or the use of poor-quality materials, are often detected during a site visit. These issues can compromise the building’s overall integrity and safety, but it requires an engineer on site to identify to find the given issue(s).

In conclusion, a site visit allows the engineer to take measurements, gather data, and ask questions to better understand the project and its requirements.

Furthermore, a site visit provides the opportunity for the engineer to interact with other professionals involved in the project, such as architects, contractors, or building owners. This collaboration can lead to a more comprehensive and effective resolution, as different perspectives and expertise are brought to the table.

If you are considering hiring a structural engineer, make sure to prioritise a site visit as part of the process.

Common Types of Structural Inspections

A structural inspection, conducted by a qualified structural engineer, addresses a wide range of concerns related to the building’s structural integrity. These inspections are crucial for identifying issues that may not be immediately visible but could lead to significant problems if left unaddressed. Common areas of focus include:

• Cracks in walls or other structural components
• Sloping or sagging of floors, roofs, or ground surfaces
• Defects resulting from movement, such as foundation shifts, roof spread, or inadequate support
• Subsidence-related movement
• Timber deterioration due to water ingress
• Re-inspections following remedial work for subsidence or other issues
• Assessing the load-bearing capacity of walls considered for removal
• Evaluating chimney breast support, either historically or for planned removal
• Feasibility of loft or barn conversions
• Assessing construction support when a wall or floor is proposed for removal
• Evaluating the structural implications of tree and drainage proximity, ground consolidation, wells, sinkholes, etc.
• Assessing existing structures at the interfaces of proposed extensions
• Inspecting exposed beams or foundations for Building Control Regularisation
• Evaluating non-standard construction forms, such as timber framing, large concrete panels, or steel framing
• Assessing deteriorating concrete and exposed, corroding reinforcement
• Inspecting vulnerable features like balconies and escape stairs
• Assessing structural arrangements for the installation of equipment like solar panels or mechanical plant
• Conducting stability and integrity assessments following vehicle impacts
• Assessing partially collapsed buildings and their impact on remaining structures

These areas are not only critical for ensuring the current safety of a property but are also vital when planning future modifications or extensions.

Q: What does a structural engineer look for during a site visit?

A: During a site visit, a structural engineer will assess the overall structural integrity of the property. This includes checking for cracks, sagging floors or roofs, signs of subsidence, timber deterioration, and other potential defects. The engineer will also evaluate the load-bearing capacity of walls and floors, especially if alterations or removals are planned.

Q: Can a structural inspection be done remotely?

A: While technology allows for remote inspections via video calls, these are not a substitute for a physical site visit. A video call cannot replace the ability to see details first hand and consider them within their broader context. The engineer must take responsibility for opinions and decisions, which cannot rely solely on remotely obtained information. The only exception might be additional information provided after an initial site visit, such as further exposure of a partially observed element.