Buying a property is one of the biggest financial decisions you'll make. A General Structural Inspection (GSI) gives you an expert overview of the whole structure — so you know exactly what you're taking on before you commit.
Unlike a standard RICS survey or a mortgage valuation, a GSI is carried out by a Chartered Structural Engineer (CEng MICE) who specialises in residential buildings. You get a clear, professional opinion on the structural condition of the property — written in plain English, with photos.
What's included in a GSI
Our engineer carries out a visual inspection of the primary structural components:
- External and internal walls (including visible cracking, movement, and bowing)
- Roof structure (where accessible — ridge, rafters, visible timbers)
- Floors (visible deflection, springiness, or structural concerns)
- Foundations (where visible — signs of movement, settlement, subsidence)
- Chimney stacks and chimney breasts
- Comments on any other visible structural concerns
What you'll receive
- Site visit by a Chartered Engineer (CEng MICE) with over 15 years' experience
- Clear written report covering all structural elements inspected
- Photos illustrating key findings
- Plain English explanation of any concerns — and their significance
- Guidance on whether any issues are cosmetic, require monitoring, or need repair
- Indication of whether insurance reporting is likely to be required
- Practical recommendations and next steps
- Report suitable for mortgage lenders, solicitors, and conveyancers
When is a GSI the right choice?
You want an expert structural opinion before you exchange contracts — especially on older or non-standard properties.
Your mortgage lender or solicitor has asked for a structural engineer's report on the property.
There are several structural concerns that warrant a whole-property assessment rather than a single focused SSI.
You want to understand and resolve structural concerns before listing, to prevent a sale falling through later.
You've lived in a property for years and want a professional review of its structural health.
GSI vs SSI — which do you need?
| Feature | SSI — £480 | GSI — £585 |
|---|---|---|
| Scope | One specific concern | Whole property structure |
| Ideal for | Cracks, mortgage hold, insurance | Buying, selling, peace of mind |
| Lender approved | ✓ | ✓ |
| Site visit | ✓ | ✓ |
| Written report + photos | ✓ | ✓ |
| Turnaround | 3–5 working days | 3–5 working days |
Not sure which is right for your situation? Call us — we'll give you an honest answer in 2 minutes.