What Is a Structural Engineer Report?
A structural engineer report is a written assessment of a building's structure after a site inspection. It is used when something about the structure is in question — cracking, movement, alterations or a purchase decision.
What Does a Structural Surveyor Do?
A structural surveyor (or engineer) will:
- Inspect walls, foundations, floors, roof and any alterations
- Record cracks and measure movement where needed
- Assess likely causes — for example subsidence, heave, drainage, trees, or failed lintels
- Advise whether the defect is serious
- Recommend repair, monitoring or further investigation
What Is Included in the Report
- Property description and the reason for inspection
- Photographs and observations
- Diagnosis of the cause of any defects
- Risk and severity assessment
- Recommended repairs or monitoring
- Further investigation if needed (drains CCTV, trial pits, level monitoring)
When You Might Need One
- Cracks wider than a hairline or growing over time
- Doors and windows sticking, or sloping floors
- Buying a house with visible movement
- Insurance claims on subsidence
- Neighbour's building works
- Structural alterations done without records — see retrospective applications
Report vs Survey vs Calculations
A report diagnoses what is wrong. A calculation designs a new structural element. Many projects need both: a report first, then design for the repair.
Next Steps
- Structural Reports service →
- Structural Surveys service →
- Cracks and subsidence survey guide →
- Cost guide →
📞 Call 07401 650600 or email us — covering Ilford, Redbridge, Newham, East London, Tilbury, Grays and Thurrock.
