Structural Inspections
Visual and technical inspection of a building structure, recording cracking, spalling, corrosion and movement, with findings explained in a clear engineering report.
Quick Answer
A structural inspection is a systematic survey of the accessible structural elements of a building. Observations are recorded by location, assessed against the building's use, alterations, defect history and available records, and followed by suitable testing where visual evidence is not enough.
The report describes engineering assessment and findings. It does not carry any claim of statutory approval, and its recommendations follow the evidence available for the building.
Who This Is For
- - Building owners & investors
- - Owners' and residents' associations
- - Property developers
- - Facility managers
When It Is Needed
- - Visible cracks or spalling
- - Before purchase or takeover
- - After a structural concern is raised
- - Before alterations are planned
What Problems This Service Solves
Many structural questions cannot be answered by looking at a surface. A structured inspection records what is visible and identifies what needs further investigation.
Reinforcement Corrosion
Corrosion of reinforcement can progress out of sight. Signs such as staining and cracking are recorded and tested where appropriate.
Structural or Cosmetic Cracking
Not every crack matters, and some that look minor do. Pattern, width and history help separate the two.
Concrete Spalling
Spalling exposes reinforcement. We map its extent and look for the underlying cause rather than the symptom alone.
Water & Seasonal Effects
Repeated wetting during the rainy season can accelerate deterioration. Leakage records are taken into account.
Undocumented Alterations
Removed walls, added loads and earlier modifications create uncertainty. We note what has changed and what needs confirming.
Unknown Condition at Purchase
A building taken over without a survey carries its latent defects with it. An inspection brings those questions into view.
The Inspection Process
Brief
Building details, use, history and the question to resolve
Records Review
Drawings, earlier reports and maintenance information
Visual Survey
Element-by-element observation of accessible structure
Testing, If Warranted
Suitable testing selected for the specific question
Report
Findings, limitations and recommended next steps
Methods & Techniques
Testing is chosen to answer a specific engineering question and is interpreted alongside the visual and documentary evidence.
Visual Condition Survey
Systematic recording of defects across accessible structural elements.
Reinforcement Detection
Locating reinforcement and measuring cover where it is relevant.
Rebound Hammer
Surface-hardness screening to compare areas of concrete.
Ultrasonic Pulse Velocity
Indication of internal quality and possible voids or cracking.
Corrosion Potential Survey
Mapping areas where reinforcement corrosion may be active.
Crack Width Gauging
Measuring and monitoring cracks to understand whether they are changing.
What You Receive
Deliverables are agreed for each assignment and shaped around the project's stage, available information and the question to be resolved. Findings are recorded with their basis and limitations, so decisions can follow the evidence.
Inspection Report
Condition findings, limitations and recommended next steps
Defect Mapping
Annotated drawings or sketches locating recorded defects
Photographic Record
Dated photographs linked to each observation
Severity & Priority Notes
Findings graded by their significance and urgency
Testing Results
Results of any testing, interpreted with the other evidence
Recommendations
Repair, monitoring or further investigation, as the evidence supports
Why New Nordic
Defined Scope
Each assignment starts with a clear question, an agreed scope and a stated reporting format.
Site-Specific Approach
Location, building use and available records shape the work, not assumptions from another market.
Evidence-Led Findings
Observations are recorded with their location and context, with limitations stated plainly.
One Connected Team
Planning, design, supervision and review can be discussed together, with responsibilities agreed from the outset.
Related Services
Existing Building Assessment
Assessment of an existing structure ahead of refurbishment, change of use or alteration, based on the evidence available.
NDT Testing
Non-destructive testing selected around the engineering question and interpreted alongside inspection findings and records.
Structural Strengthening Design
Design of strengthening and repair measures for existing structures, based on assessment findings and project-specific assumptions.
Frequently Asked
What does a structural inspection involve?
A review of available records, a visual survey of accessible structural elements, testing where it helps answer a defined question and a report explaining the findings.
How long does an inspection take?
That depends on the size and condition of the building, access and any testing. The programme is agreed after reviewing the information available.
Does the report grant any approval or certificate?
No. It is an engineering assessment and report. It does not carry any claim of statutory approval.
What information should I provide?
The location, building type, age and use, plus any drawings, earlier reports, photographs and a note of where problems have been seen.
What happens if defects are found?
The report sets out what was observed and what should happen next, which may be monitoring, further investigation or repair design.
Start a Conversation
Talk to Us About Structural Inspections
Tell us where the project is, what stage it has reached and the questions you need to resolve. We will discuss the scope of support required.