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Structural Appraisals

A structural appraisal is a professional evaluation of a building’s structural condition and integrity. It examines loadbearing elements such as walls, floors, beams, roofs, and foundations to assess their adequacy, deterioration, or risk.  

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What is a Structural Survey?

Structural Surveys offer a comprehensive examination of a buildings structural integrity, including its foundations, walls, floors, roof, and other critical components. At Firntec we have 3 stages of Structural Surveys which are detailed below. Speak to one of our consultants today to discuss your specific buildings needs. 

When is a Structural Appraisal Required? 

Structural appraisals are typically needed when: 

  • There are visible signs of cracking, movement, or damage 
  • The building is undergoing change of use or refurbishment 
  • There are concerns about non traditional or system built structures 
  • Structural issues are flagged during fire or building surveys 
  • Regulatory bodies require evidence of structural safety 

They are especially relevant in older residential stock or buildings with historic construction methods. 

What we assess:

Firntec’s appraisals include inspection and evaluation of: 

  • Loadbearing walls and frames 
  • Roof structures and supports 
  • Foundations and ground conditions 
  • Concrete, steel, brickwork, and timber components 
  • Evidence of movement, corrosion, settlement, or water ingress 

We also assess any alterations that may have impacted structural integrity over time. 

Our Approach

Firntec follows a clear, structured process to deliver accurate and actionable structural appraisals. 

Stage 1:

Initial Survey

We begin with a review of available floor plans, building type, and ground conditions using desk based research and online resources. A thorough site inspection follows, assessing key structural elements including walls, roofs, cladding, balconies, and any signs of movement.

Where needed, we specify additional investigations tailored to your needs. These may include opening up works, material testing, trial pits, or drone surveys. Findings are compiled into a Stage 1 report, complete with diagrams, photographs, and initial recommendations. 

Stage 2:

Further Investigations

Where specified, we carry out focused structural investigations to confirm structural condition. This could include concrete testing, carbonation checks, reinforcement cover surveys, or foundation depth assessments. All investigations are scoped to minimise disruption while providing accurate results. See our Structural Investigations page for more information.

Stage 3:

Final Report & Recommendations

We analyse the findings and prepare a detailed follow up report or addendum to your Stage 1 report. This provides clear conclusions on structural performance along with any recommendations for remedial works or further actions, tailored to your building and compliance needs.

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The Different Type of Surveys

What's the difference between a Building Survey, Structural Survey and a Structural Appraisal?

 

Building Survey

Before purchasing a property, homebuyers often obtain a building survey, which offers a thorough assessment of its condition and structure. To conduct a building survey, you’ll require a RICS chartered surveyor, who operates under the regulation of The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors. These surveys used to be called stage 3 Full Structural Surveys which often adds to the confusion!

Structural Survey

A structural engineer conducts this examination, focusing on the integrity of the structure. Typically recommended by your property surveyor, it offers a more in-depth analysis. Regulatory bodies such as The Institution of Structural Engineers (IStructE) and The Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE) oversee structural engineers.

Structural Appraisal

A Structural Appraisal differs from a Structural Survey in its focus and purpose.  Tailored to address general or specific structural conditions, an Appraisal may target issues like Subsidence, Landslip, or Cavity Wall Tie failure. The appraisal will focus on the defect and offer insight and advice.

When should you complete a Structural Survey?
  • Competent person should complete a thorough structural survey and assessment before any potentially load- bearing parts of a structure are altered.
  • When considering the purchase of a new property, it’s essential to verify that your investment is directed towards a building that is both structurally sound and secure.
  • Structural Surveys are often requested following a building survey if a surveyor has found that a particular issue needs additional investigation.
  • Structural Appraisals are an essential part of completing your Building Safety Case.

 Whether you're managing a single high-risk building or a large portfolio, Firntec provides trusted structural advice to support safe and informed decisions.

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