Reason for contacting us
A prospective purchaser contacted Pole Structural Engineers Reports following their valuation survey, which expressed concern about cracking at the rear of the terraced property in Feltham. A Structural Engineer’s report was required prior to confirmation of their mortgage valuation offer.
Pole service offer
In response to the client’s requirements our qualified Chartered Structural Engineer recommended a General Movement Report.
There are two distinct types of structural engineers’ reports:
1) A localised, very specific and limited Structural Engineers Defect Report or a Specific Structural Inspection Report (SSI);
2) A broader Structural Engineers General Movement Report, or General Structural Inspection Report (GSI), which focuses on matters of cracking and movement only.
Our Report
We found that the original late 1800s cottage in Feltham had been rendered at the rear and this render had cracked at various locations. The cracking was of the order of 1–2 mm in width and was sufficiently small as to be of no structural concern.
The cracks were both historic and of very small magnitude. In fact, they would not even be visible had the bricks not been rendered, since the bricks and mortar joints would be capable of absorbing such minor movements.
The local geology is gravel and therefore we associate fractured drainage as the most common cause of movement in this part of West London.
Conclusions
Pole Structural Engineers Reports recommended that the cracks were repaired at a cost of about £2,000. We recommended that the drains should be routinely tested as part of planned maintenance. We concluded that the cracks were extremely minor and historic and therefore not a problem for this 19th century cottage.
Can we help you?
If you would like advice on any structural aspects of your property in London, our Structural Engineers are here to help you so please don’t hesitate to contact us.
