As one of Dublin and Ireland's most established structural survey engineers, I often get questions about structural surveys. Unfortunately, the internet is awash with low-quality information or in-depth scholarly articles that are too dense for the average homeowner. We've taken your questions and given straightforward answers to make this information as easy to digest as possible. The information below is for informational purposes only, and if you have any specific enquiries, we highly encourage you to contact us directly.
What Is a Structural Survey On a House?
A structural survey, as performed by Denis Creedon Consulting Engineers, is a comprehensive assessment of a property's condition, primarily conducted before purchase, to identify any existing or potential structural defects. This essential service aims to provide potential buyers with "peace of mind" by thoroughly examining key structural elements like the roof, walls, foundations, and drainage systems while checking for issues such as dampness, rot, and compliance with building regulations. By delivering detailed written reports accompanied by colour photographs, Denis Creedon Consulting Engineers helps clients in the Cork area make informed decisions, ensuring they avoid costly surprises and protect their investments.
How Long Does A Structural Survey Report Take?
Unfortunately, it's impossible to give you a precise time frame of how long a structural survey will take. However, a structural survey typically entails:
Inspection Time: The on-site inspection itself can vary significantly, typically taking anywhere from 1 to 4 hours, depending on the size and complexity of the property.
Report Compilation: The time required to compile the written report also varies. Factors that influence this include:
The level of detail required.
The complexity of any issues discovered.
The engineer's workload.
Generally, you should receive the report within a few working days of the inspection.
Factors influencing report time.
The size of the property.
The age of the property.
The complexity of any issues that are found.
The amount of detail that the report contains.
How Much Does A Full Structural Survey Cost?
The cost of a complete structural survey in Ireland varies significantly, influenced by factors like property size, age, and location. Generally, expect to pay between €500 and €2,000, with apartments on the lower end and more extensive, older homes on the higher end. To get a precise quote, please get in touch with us.
What Is The Difference Between A Building Survey And A Structural Survey?
It's common to get building surveys and structural surveys mixed up, as there's some overlap. Here's a breakdown of the key differences:
Scope:
A building survey (often referred to as a RICS Level 3 Survey) is a comprehensive inspection of the entire property. It assesses the overall condition, including structural and non-structural elements. This includes roof, walls, floors, plumbing, electrical systems, and potential issues like dampness or rot.
A structural survey focuses specifically on the structural integrity of the building. It examines the load-bearing elements, such as foundations, walls, and beams, to identify structural defects or weaknesses.
Professional:
Building surveys are typically conducted by chartered surveyors
Structural surveys are conducted by structural engineers.
Purpose:
A building survey provides a detailed overview of the property's condition, helping buyers make informed decisions and plan for potential repairs.
A structural survey investigates specific structural concerns, such as cracks, subsidence, or suspected weaknesses. It's often recommended when a building survey reveals potential structural issues.
In simpler terms:
A building survey is a general health check of the property.
A structural survey is a specialist examination of the building's skeleton.
Essentially, a building survey examines the whole building, while a structural survey examines the building's bones.
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