Structural Survey vs. Structural Inspection: What’s the Difference?

The world of engineering can be a confusing time for many new homeowners. A common question that we hear from real estate agents, home buyers and home sellers is “What’s the difference between a home inspection and a survey?”

If you are planning any home improvements or want to change the structure of your property, it is beneficial for you to understand the difference between structural inspections and structural surveys, so that you can trust that your building is structurally sound and safe to live in.



Who Conducts Structural Surveys and Structural Inspections?

One of the main differences between structural inspections vs structural surveys is that structural inspections are conducted by a structural engineer, whose job is to confirm the structural soundness of a building. A structural survey, on the other hand, must always be undertaken by a Chartered Surveyor, who is a member of the Institution of Structural Engineers or the Institution of Civil Engineers.

What is a Structural Survey?

A structural survey is different to a structural inspection because it is more common when buying a house, and involves a surveyor examining the whole of the house including the wallpaper, plasterwork, the boiler, plumbing, electricity, the gas services, and more.

Types of Property You Should Get a Structural Survey on

●    Listed buildings

●    Properties that are over 50 years old

●    A building that you are looking to renovate in some way

What is a Structural Inspection?

A structural inspection is a full detailed report on the condition and method of the structural integrity of a property, which identifies any repairs that you would need to make. It is performed by a structural engineer who inspects a home or building’s bearing components such as the foundation, joists, beams, trusses, or columns/posts.

A structural inspection is carried out when selling your home, buying a home, observing structural movement in a building, storm damage, remodelling and sinking foundations. It is performed when a home or property owner has questions about the structural integrity of a building or structure. This could entail an analysis of the whole structure or an examination of one specific element of a building.

A structural engineer inspection looks specifically at the structure of a property, and not the quality of what is inside the home.

Common Reasons You May Need a Structural Engineer Inspection

●    Bowing/cracked foundation

●    Settlement or wall cracks

●    To remove a wall in a remodel

●    Add solar panels to a roof

●    Add a second story to a home

How Much Does a Structural Engineer Inspection Cost?

The cost of structural engineers will vary depending on the type of work you are looking for, how many visits are needed and where you are based in relation to them. Engineers often charge per hour. A relatively small project will cost significantly less than an entire residential home building project. Different companies have different fees so be sure to do your research.

At Integrated Designs & Associates, we are experts in our field and can provide all the advice and support you need when looking for help with your projects. With over two decades of experience, we know exactly what it takes to help you with your project. If you are in need of a structural engineer or want additional information about any of the services that we provide, contact us today.