Structural Surevy
If you’re buying a house or flat and your RICS surveyor notices signs of movement—such as sagging, cracks, or bowing—or if you’ve seen new signs of movement in a property you own, Laytoe Structures can help determine if it’s a serious issue.
Our experienced team will identify the cause of the movement and provide clear guidance on the necessary steps.
Since 2016, Laytoe Structures has conducted over 1,400 structural surveys across London, offering reliable and thorough assessments. Our in-house structural engineers personally inspect every property, ensuring each client receives a bespoke report.
Here are the details of each level of inspection we offer:
Specific Structural Inspection (SSI)
An SSI involves investigating a single structural issue or crack within the property, covering one specific area. We will not inspect any other rooms or areas of the property.
General Structural Inspection (GSI)
A GSI provides a comprehensive evaluation of the property's condition, including visual inspections and reporting on severe cracks, subsidence, and movements both inside and outside the premises. Our inspection includes:
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Proximity of Trees and Shrubs: Evaluating their potential impact on foundations in accordance with National House Building Council (NHBC) guidelines.
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Soil Type Reviews: Reviewing British Geological Survey records to identify soil types and assess potential influences on subsidence.
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Structural Elements: Inspecting walls, floors, load-bearing structures, and openings to ensure a thorough examination of the property's overall integrity.
Comprehensive General Structural Inspection (CGSI)
In addition to the areas inspected in a GSI, this inspection includes a visual assessment of the roof structures, cellar, and outbuildings. A CGSI does not limit the number of cracks inspected, and we will also visually evaluate all internal alterations and report on any previous alterations to the property’s structures.
Q: Do You Expose Any Part of the Property, Like Foundations, During Inspection?
A: No, our inspections are strictly visual. We do not expose any part of the property, such as foundations, during our inspections. Our structural surveyors conduct thorough visual assessments to identify signs of structural issues, such as cracks, sagging, or bowing.
By using advanced tools and our extensive expertise, we can provide a reliable evaluation of the property's condition without invasive procedures. If we find potential issues that require further investigation, we will recommend the appropriate next steps, which may include more invasive techniques carried out by specialised professionals.
Q: What is the difference between an RICS Level 2 or 3 survey and a Structural Survey?
A: Structural Survey: Our Structural Survey is a detailed and specialised examination of a property's structural integrity. This survey involves a thorough inspection of both the interior and exterior, focusing specifically on structural elements like cracks, movements, and other potential indicators of structural problems. It is ideal for those seeking a precise and in-depth evaluation of the property's structural components.
RICS Level 3 Survey: In contrast, the RICS Level 3 Survey provides a broader evaluation of the property, covering aspects like plumbing, electrics, and more, but only gives a brief overview of the structural elements. While it may highlight potential structural issues, it doesn't delve into the specifics of structural integrity. In such cases, they often refer you to a structural engineer, like us at Laytoe Structures, for a detailed structural survey.
Summary: The main difference between the two surveys can be likened to the roles of a general practitioner (GP) and a specialist. The Structural Survey acts as the specialist, focusing exclusively on the structural health of the property. In contrast, the RICS Level 3 Survey is akin to a GP's check-up, providing a broader overview of the property's overall condition but with less depth. If structural issues are identified during an RICS survey, it often results in a recommendation for a more detailed examination by a structural engineer.