Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
At Structural Inspections, we specialise in providing structural surveys, verbal inspections, and detailed structural reports for homeowners, buyers, investors, and builders throughout London. Whether you're purchasing a property, planning renovations, applying for a mortgage, or concerned about cracks and movement—we deliver fast, professional insight into the structural condition of your property.
All inspections are carried out by experienced structural engineers, with clear guidance tailored to your needs. Our reports are accepted by mortgage lenders, solicitors, and Building Control.
General FAQs
What is a structural survey or structural inspection?
A structural inspection is a detailed assessment of a building’s structural integrity. It checks elements like foundations, walls, beams, and roofs for safety and stability.
Why do I need a structural survey?
A structural survey identifies hidden defects that could lead to expensive repairs. It helps homeowners and commercial clients make informed decisions.
What does a structural survey include?
It includes a site visit, inspection of visible structural elements, photographs, analysis, and a detailed report with repair recommendations.
Who carries out structural surveys?
Our surveys are carried out by qualified structural engineers with experience in residential and commercial buildings.
How is a structural survey different from other property surveys?
A structural survey focuses purely on the load-bearing structure, unlike HomeBuyer or condition reports which provide more general overviews.
Property Purchase
Why should I get a structural survey before buying a property?
It can reveal defects like subsidence or wall movement and may help you negotiate repairs or a better purchase price.
What types of surveys do you offer?
We offer verbal assessments, full structural reports, and specific defect reports tailored to both residential and commercial properties.
When should I book a structural survey during a purchase?
After your offer is accepted but before exchanging contracts to allow time for negotiation if defects are found.
Will a structural survey find issues like subsidence or timber decay?
Yes. We check for evidence of subsidence, wood rot, damp, and other structural concerns during every inspection.
Can I use a structural survey to negotiate price?
Yes. The report provides evidence to renegotiate or request that issues are resolved before completion.
Structural Issues
What are common signs of structural problems?
Cracks in walls, leaning or bulging walls, sagging floors, sticking doors and windows, or signs of subsidence.
Are all cracks in a property serious?
No. Hairline cracks are often harmless, but wider or stepped cracks may indicate structural movement and should be assessed.
What is subsidence and how is it identified?
Subsidence is ground movement beneath a building. We identify it by checking for stepped or diagonal cracks and sloping floors.
How do I know if a wall or floor is unstable?
Visible bowing, uneven surfaces, or gaps between joins can be indicators of instability. A structural inspection will confirm the cause.
Do you deal with issues specific to East Anglia, London, and Essex?
Yes. We have local experience with soil conditions, foundation types, and common building issues across these regions.
Renovation & Planning
Do I need a structural inspection before a loft conversion or extension?
Yes. We assess the existing structure’s capacity to support new loads and advise on necessary reinforcements.
What is the engineer’s role in building regulations compliance?
We provide structural calculations and reports required by Building Control for approval of structural changes.
Can you inspect unauthorised building work?
Yes. We assess unapproved alterations for safety and provide reports to help regularise work with local authorities.
How do you support basement and loft projects structurally?
We check foundations, retaining walls, floors, and roof structures, and provide all required designs and calculations.
Should I contact an engineer early in my project?
Yes. Early input helps avoid design errors, saves costs, and ensures smooth compliance with structural regulations.
Costs & Booking
How much does a structural inspection cost?
Costs vary by property type and scope. Residential inspections typically range from £450 to £1250 depending on complexity.
What’s included in the inspection process?
A site visit, structural review, photographic documentation, analysis of findings, and a written report with recommendations.
How quickly can I get a report?
Reports are usually delivered within 3–5 working days after the inspection. Faster turnaround is available on request.
Are your engineers qualified and insured?
Yes. All engineers are qualified professionals with appropriate insurance and experience in structural inspections.
Which areas do you cover?
We serve clients across East Anglia, London, Essex, Cambridge, and surrounding regions. National coverage is available for larger projects.
Property Structural Surveys by Qualified Structural Engineers across London
We offer a wide range of structural inspection services tailored to suit your needs:
We provide thorough and reliable structural surveys for residential and commercial properties across the UK.
Professional Structural Surveys across London.
40+
Backed by over 40 years of structural engineering experience
50+
Team members enabling engineering across the UK
1000+
Residential, commercial & industrial projects nationwide
6
offices nationwide for efficient structural surveys
What Our Clients Say
Comprehensive Survey
The structural survey by JMS highlighted critical issues before purchase, saving us from unforeseen expenses. Highly recommend their thorough approach.
Steven C.- Cambridge, Cambridgeshire
Good Value Report
I just needed quick peace of mind about a cracked wall. The verbal report for £250 was spot on and super clear.
Mark T.- Norwich, Norfolk
Helped Avoid a Costly Mistake
Their residential structural survey flagged subsidence the seller hadn’t disclosed. I walked away from a potential nightmare.
David M.- Ipswich, Suffolk
Perfect for My Mortgage
Needed a structural report for the bank - these guys delivered quickly and ticked all the boxes. The mortgage went through without any issues.
Priya K.- Colchester, Essex
Value Pre-Purchase Survey
As a first-time buyer, I didn’t know what to expect. The team explained everything and helped me feel secure about my investment.
Jasmine E.- Dartford, Kent
Professional & Knowledgeable
I couldn't be more happy with the service received from JMS. From start to finish, their team was professional, knowledgeable, and attentive to every detail.
Mr. J. Snitzer- Stamford Hill, London
Construction Project Lifesaver
Midway through a build, we had concerns about load-bearing walls. Wes from MJC gave expert advice and helped us rework plans before things got expensive.
Ben & Lottie W.- Salford, Manchester
Assessment Was Reassuring
Called them out for a scary ceiling crack. Turned out to be cosmetic, but Tom's calm professionalism made all the difference. Thank you, Tom!
Sandra H.- Watford
Trusted Advice for a Big Decision
We nearly went ahead with a period property until their structural survey revealed major foundation movement. Grateful for the honest and detailed assessment.
Alex & Jamie F.- Milton Keynes
Frequently Asked Questions
Structural Inspections is a UK-based service providing professional structural property surveys for residential and commercial buildings across the UK.
*Prices are for guidance only and exclude VAT at 20%. Final cost depends on the scope of work, site size, and location.