Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re removing or altering walls, extending your property, changing the roof, creating new openings, converting a loft, or making other significant structural changes, you may need structural engineering input. If you’re unsure, get in touch and we can help you understand what is required.

You can’t always tell from the wall itself. The age and construction of the building, the direction of floor and roof joists, the layout above and below, and the way the structure is supported all need to be considered. We can assess the existing structure and advise you on the appropriate solution.

Not necessarily. Cracks can have many causes, from minor finishes and seasonal movement to more significant structural movement. Rather than jumping to conclusions, we recommend investigating the evidence and understanding the cause. We can carry out a structural appraisal and advise on the appropriate next steps.

Yes. We can provide structural advice when you’re considering purchasing a property, particularly where cracks, movement, alterations or other structural concerns have been identified. Our assessment is focused on the structural aspects of the property and is not a replacement for a RICS Home Survey.

Yes. We provide structural appraisal surveys and structural assessments tailored to the particular concern or project. The scope will depend on what needs to be investigated and may include an inspection of the visible structure, photographs, observations and recommendations for further investigation where appropriate.

Yes. We can assess the existing structure and, where appropriate, design the required steel beam or other structural solution. We can also provide the calculations and drawings needed for Building Control and construction.

Yes. We provide structural designs, calculations and drawings for a range of projects, including extensions, loft conversions, new openings, new builds and alterations to existing buildings.

Yes. We work with homeowners, architects and builders on extensions and loft conversions, from assessing the existing structure through to structural design and drawings.

Absolutely. We regularly work collaboratively with architects and other construction professionals. Our role is to provide the structural engineering input while working alongside the wider design team to develop a practical solution.

Yes. We can work with homeowners and builders directly, as well as part of a wider project team. We aim to provide clear structural information that can be understood and used on site.

Yes. We support developers with structural appraisals, feasibility advice, conversions, extensions, new builds and structural design. We can also work with developers and their wider professional teams throughout a project.

Yes. Our services extend beyond residential projects. We can provide structural assessments, surveys, design and engineering advice for commercial and industrial buildings and alterations.

Yes. We can assess the existing roof structure and consider whether it is suitable for the proposed additional loading. The assessment will depend on the type of roof, its existing condition and the proposed solar installation.

It depends on the project. Some work can begin with drawings, photographs and other information, while other projects require an engineer to inspect the property or structure in person. We will advise you on the appropriate approach before proceeding.

Where possible, send us the full property address, a brief description of the proposed work, any existing drawings or plans, and photographs of the relevant areas. The more information we have, the better we can understand the project and advise on the next steps.

This depends on the size and complexity of the property and the scope of the assessment. Once we understand what you need, we can explain what is involved and provide an indication of the expected timescale.

We provide the structural calculations and drawings required for the structural elements of your project. These can then be submitted to your Building Control body as part of the wider building regulations process.

It depends on the circumstances. Where structural work has already been carried out, we may need to inspect the work and review available information before determining what further assessment or documentation is possible. We cannot retrospectively certify work without sufficient evidence.

We don’t automatically assume the worst. We assess the available evidence, explain what we have found and recommend proportionate next steps. Where further investigation is needed, we will explain why and what it is intended to establish.

If you have an urgent structural concern, contact us with details of what has happened, the property address and photographs where possible. We will advise whether an urgent inspection is appropriate and what you should do next.

Simply get in touch and tell us what you’re planning, what you’ve noticed or what you’re concerned about. You don’t need to know the name of the engineering service you need — we’ll help you work out the appropriate next step.