A structural survey is a thorough on-site evaluation by a qualified structural engineer. It identifies and diagnoses visible or suspected defects in a building’s structure, and provides an expert opinion on cause, severity, and appropriate action.
PS Structural Ltd specialises in structural surveys for both residential and commercial properties across the UK.
Our comprehensive structural inspections encompass every element of a building’s fabric, from the visible to the concealed, to ensure you have a clear understanding of any current or emerging issues. We combine visual appraisal with non-destructive testing methods and precise measurements to pinpoint defects, assess their severity, and recommend the most cost-effective remedial actions.
Each structural survey includes a formal, engineer-signed report detailing our findings and expert recommendations. You will receive:
Our structural survey service goes beyond inspection we provide you with actionable insights, peace of mind, and documentation you can rely on:
A professionally written and engineer-signed report explaining the root cause of all identified defects, their severity, and the extent of structural damage.
Specific advice for each defect, including appropriate repair methods such as crack stitching, re-levelling, or lintel replacement.
Where necessary, we provide detailed method statements for advanced techniques such as underpinning or wall tie replacement.
Obtain accurate quotes from contractors
Negotiate the purchase price of the property based on repair requirements
Your property is surveyed by an experienced chartered structural engineer, ensuring that all defects have been professionally assessed and no critical issues are overlooked.
All inspections are conducted personally by our experienced chartered engineer ensuring quality, accuracy, and continuity from site visit to final report.
Every inspection includes annotated imagery, so issues are clearly identified and professionally presented.
We don’t just describe defects we outline practical next steps to help you resolve them swiftly and cost-effectively.
We perform a comprehensive evaluation of all visible fissures assessing their width, orientation and depth into the substrate and cross-reference these observations to determine whether the root cause is settlement, moisture ingress or structural movement. When necessary, we install unobtrusive monitoring sensors to distinguish between dormant and active cracks, ensuring any remedial measures are precisely targeted and timely.
The removal of paving reveals ground movement and signs of settlement affecting the wall base. Such defects are often caused by poor drainage, tree roots, or inadequate foundations, and can lead to structural instability.
These types of cracks are commonly associated with differential settlement or thermal movement, particularly where openings such as windows and doors interrupt the masonry. Structural surveys help identify whether these cracks are historic or active, and what remedial actions are necessary
Using calibrated digital levels and laser-guided alignment tools, we take systematic plumb and level readings along load-bearing elements and graph these data on detailed site plans. By comparing successive readings, we can detect minute deflections, assess whether movement is stabilising or progressing, and advise on whether ongoing monitoring suffices or immediate strengthening interventions are required.
We examine brick cracks to determine their root cause whether thermal movement, freeze thaw cycling or ground settlement while assessing mortar and masonry for moisture damage. By mapping crack patterns across the elevation, we distinguish isolated defects from broader structural issues and recommend the most appropriate repair, from targeted repointing to full-depth reinforcement
During our damp‐ingress survey, we examine all signs of moisture from rising damp at skirting walls to leaks around window and roof junctions and employ moisture meters and infrared thermography to uncover hidden sources. We evaluate the effect on structural elements such as timber joists and brickwork, measure moisture levels against industry standards, and identify failed damp‐proof courses or waterproofing issues. The outcome is a precise diagnosis of moisture origin and severity, accompanied by targeted recommendations to restore a dry, structurally sound environment
Our ceiling and cornice crack assessment focuses on movement at plasterboard joints, coving interfaces and decorative mouldings. We measure crack widths and offsets, determine whether separations reflect historic settlement or active structural drift, and evaluate the condition of fixings and support trims. By correlating these findings with adjacent wall and soffit behaviour, we can advise on the necessity and urgency of remedial works—whether simple joint reinforcement and redecoration, or more extensive structural stabilization.
We offer comprehensive structural surveys and on-site inspections to identify signs of movement, cracking, damp ingress, or construction defects. Fast turnaround and detailed analysis to support peace of mind or next steps in remediation.
