"...Structural engineer turned up and walked my wife through all the issues that had been raised on a valuation report. We subsequently got a report which spelled out clearly all the issues with relevant photos. The survey was quick to organise and report clear and well presented.
I would recommend them."
I would recommend them."
What is a Structural Surveyor?
(Last Updated: 16/08/2024)
04/01/2023
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7 min read
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Key Takeaways
- Structural surveyors are also known as structural engineers or civil engineers
- They are required to investigate suspected structural defects and for making plans for new works or renovations which affect the structural integrity of a building
- Depending on the size and complexity of the build you may need a structural engineer, an architect, or both.
- SAM Conveyancing's structural surveyors specialise in subsidence and the removal of load bearing walls and chimney breasts.
- Always check that your structural surveyor has professional indemnity insurance. (All of SAM's surveyors do).
- Costs vary according to project but expect to pay around £100 per hour
A structural engineer or structural surveyor specialises in the structural integrity of buildings, construction methods and building materials. Their knowledge is indispensable if you want to alter your property's structure.
They can determine a building's strength, durability and safety, using specialist measurements. They can identify and investigate problems like structural movement, and tell you what's required to fix it. They can calculate if, and how, you can carry out a home improvement project, like building an extension or removing a chimney breast, where the integral strength of the property will be altered.
This knowledge can include the recommendation to use particular building materials and safety is always foremost in their calculations. They should all carry professional indemnity insurance to practise, but as this is (strangely) not a legal requirement, you should always check this before using one.
Ever wondered if you should buy a house with gable straps?
What's the difference between a structural engineer and an architect?
Structural surveyors or engineers work to ensure a proposed structure is safe and supported correctly, taking into account matters such as the materials to be used in the build, the location of the site and the weight of the build.Architects design and sometimes oversee projects, carrying out work which is very similar or the same as that of engineers but they are perhaps more generally known for their role in building design.
The difference is a subtle one and there is considerable crossover in work. Sometimes the two work in unison and you can also get architectural engineers(!).
There is, however, evidence to suggest that for a given residential structural improvement task which requires calculations and drawings, structural engineers are less expensive to hire than architects.
This article looks at the following:
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Thinking of a home improvement project?
If you're looking to build an extension, take out a chimney breast or remove a load bearing wall, you should hire one of our experienced structural engineers to help you.They produce calculations and drawings for your building contractors to follow to safely get the job done efficiently.
NB All our structural surveyors carry professional indemnity insurance.
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When do I need a structural engineer?
- Building an extension
- Removing a chimney breast
- Removing or modifying internal walls, including load bearing walls
- Loft conversions
- Fitting solar panels
- Modifying doors and windows
- Underpinning floors
- Structural inspections
When you hire a RICS chartered building surveyor to carry out a home buyers survey on a property you're looking to buy, they might identify structural issues and advise you to have a more detailed investigation of the issue from a structural engineer. This often occurs when your surveyor has highlighted suspicions of subsidence.
You might also want to hire one directly if you notice cracks or other causes of concern in your property and you want an expert to assess the damage, identifying possible causes and treatment.
- Expert Witness services
Our structural surveyors can provide structural engineer surveys (including for subsidence) and expert witness services.
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What professional bodies regulate them?
Someone practising as a structural engineer does not have to be a member of either body in order to practise; they may be a member of another related professional body or not be a member of any.
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What does a structural engineer do?
They will then carry out a site visit and inspection. In the case of checking for subsidence, this differs from a home buyers survey inspection in that it is intrusive; floorboards may be lifted for example.
For a home improvement project such as a loft conversion, the engineer takes a series of measurements which they will use in their calculations and accurate drawings.
If your project involves building work, ultimately you end up with a good set of drawings, schedules and specifications which building contractors can then use to realise your project accurately, using appropriate materials and according to prevailing building control standards. They may also be able to suggest an appropriate contractor for the job if required.
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Structural engineer costs
Naturally the full cost actually realising a project like a rear extension is likely to be several times more than this when you include contractor costs (material and labour).
However you can rest assured that hiring an experienced structural engineer is likely to result in better execution of the project, much better value for money overall (mistakes after all are costly and possibly very dangerous) and legal compliance (which is advantageous not only from a safety perspective but also in removing the possibility of being fined further down the line by your local authority).
Frequently Asked Questions
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Written by:
Andrew Boast
Andrew started his career in 2000 working within conveyancing solicitor firms and grew hands-on knowledge of a wide variety of conveyancing challenges and solutions. After helping in excess of 50,000 clients in his career, he uses all this experience within his article writing for SAM, mainstream media and his self published book How to Buy a House Without Killing Anyone.
Reviewed by:
Caragh Bailey
Caragh is an excellent writer and copy editor of books, news articles and editorials. She has written extensively for SAM for a variety of conveyancing, survey, property law and mortgage-related articles.