Do You Need a Structural Survey in Greater Manchester? What Homeowners in Bolton, Wigan & Trafford Should Know
- Structural Inspections
- Sep 18
- 2 min read
Greater Manchester’s property market is booming. From the urban skyline of Salford to historic terraces in Bolton, new developments and refurbishments are everywhere. In 2024 alone, 4,448 new homes were completed and 10,788 homes were under construction across Manchester and Salford. This growth is exciting, but it also highlights the importance of safeguarding property investments through structural surveys.
What Is a Structural Survey?
A structural survey is a detailed inspection carried out by a qualified structural engineer. Unlike a general homebuyer’s survey, it focuses on the stability and integrity of a building’s load-bearing elements.
It can identify:
Cracks in walls or foundations
Signs of subsidence or movement
Damp or water ingress problems
Structural impact of past extensions or alterations
The report not only diagnoses problems but also provides practical solutions that comply with building regulations.
Why Greater Manchester Homes Need Structural Surveys
Properties across Greater Manchester face unique challenges:
Older Terraces in Bolton & Bury – Many sit on clay soil, making them more prone to settlement and cracking.
Industrial Conversions in Trafford – Old mills and warehouses turned into flats may conceal hidden defects.
Ex-Mining Areas in Wigan – Ground movement remains a risk for certain housing developments.
Rapid New-Build Growth – Thousands of homes being built each year means quality control is vital to avoid costly surprises.
According to the English Housing Survey 2023–24, around 1.2 million dwellings in England (5%) fail to meet basic repair standards, with issues like damp and structural disrepair commonly reported. This underlines why inspections are crucial, even for newer properties.
When Should You Get a Structural Survey?
Before buying a property, especially older or extended homes
If you notice cracks, uneven floors, or sticking doors/windows
When planning extensions, loft conversions, or major refurbishments
For reassurance if your property is near heavy construction or groundworks
Benefits of Acting Early
Save money – Fixing minor defects before they escalate prevents expensive repairs.
Preserve property value – A sound structure reassures buyers, tenants, and lenders.
Improve safety – Protects occupants from hidden structural risks.
Secure better deals – Mortgage lenders and insurers are more favourable when structural issues are ruled out.
If you own or are buying in Bolton, Wigan, Trafford, or anywhere across Greater Manchester, a structural survey offers peace of mind and protects your investment. Arrange an inspection with a qualified structural engineer to ensure your property is safe, compliant, and future-proof.
With over 25 years of experience, our team at Structural-Inspections by JMS Engineers provides clear, reliable structural reports for residential and commercial properties across the UK.
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