Surveyors are not Structural Engineers. We look at the fabric of the property and can understand its history and the way that a building behaves and functions. All buildings move. However, depending how old a building is and how it was constructed will inform us if defects are historical of active; these are the questions that your lenders will ask us to answer.
No two buildings are the same. Defects are typically part of a system of either movement or poor construction and they manifest in different ways. We have enjoyed walk-through surveys with purchasers before they make an offer on a property. Many estate Agents do not like this approach as they prefer an offer on the table first. We undertake walk-through surveys to give immediate feedback on the condition and defects that a property might have.
We also undertake assessment work to consider the viability of a structural change or to consider if structural changes are necessary. WE can undertake either qualitative assessments or quantitative assessment. (Qualitative is where we use our knowledge and engineering experience to determine an outcome. Quantitative is where we undertake calculations in order to determine and outcome such as determining the correct size of a piece of steel).
Want to know more? Get in touch!