A mortgage lender may ask for a structural engineer's report after a valuation identifies cracking, movement, suspected subsidence, an alteration or another issue that could affect the property. This does not automatically mean the property is unsafe. It means the lender needs more evidence before deciding how the structural concern affects its lending assessment.
Why does a lender request a structural report?
A mortgage valuation is primarily concerned with the property and the lender's security. Where a valuer sees a structural concern, a specialist structural engineer may be asked to investigate the issue in greater detail.
Common reasons for a referral
- Cracks in brickwork or masonry.
- Possible subsidence or historic movement.
- Sloping or distorted floors.
- A removed load-bearing wall or chimney breast.
- Unusual alterations or non-standard construction.
- Signs of movement around openings or extensions.
- Previous subsidence or structural repair history.
What should the engineer's report address?
The report should clearly identify the areas inspected, record relevant observations, discuss the likely cause and structural significance of the issue, and state whether further investigation or remedial work is appropriate. Where the evidence is insufficient to reach a firm conclusion, the report should explain what additional information is needed.
Does the lender require a Chartered Structural Engineer?
The requirement varies between lenders and individual cases. If the valuation specifically states that the report must be prepared, reviewed or signed by a Chartered Structural Engineer, the wording should be provided to the engineering firm before the inspection so the correct scope and professional sign-off can be considered.
What if subsidence is suspected?
The engineer may recommend further investigation such as crack monitoring, drainage CCTV, trial pits, soil investigation or assessment of nearby vegetation. These steps are used to establish whether movement is active and what is causing it.
Before you book
Send the valuer's or lender's exact wording to the structural engineer. This is one of the simplest ways to reduce misunderstandings about the scope of the inspection and report.
Laytoe Structures provides structural inspections and mortgage-related structural reports for residential properties across London. Our engineers assess the specific concern identified by the client, valuer, lender or insurer.