When a surveyor flags a “red flag” crack, a lender puts your mortgage on hold, or you notice something that doesn't look right — a Specific Structural Inspection (SSI) gives you a clear professional answer from a Chartered Engineer.
Unlike a standard RICS survey, which identifies symptoms, an SSI diagnoses the cause. Because our engineers are ICE-Chartered (CEng MICE), our reports are accepted by all major UK mortgage lenders — including HSBC, Barclays, Halifax, and Nationwide.
Common situations where you'll need an SSI
What you get
- A focused site visit by a Chartered Engineer (CEng MICE)
- Verbal advice during the visit where possible
- Clear written report with findings and recommendations
- Photos included to illustrate key concerns
- Confirmation of whether the issue is cosmetic or structural
- Guidance on whether insurance reporting is likely to be required
- Practical repair recommendations
- Report suitable for mortgage lenders, solicitors, and insurers
About our cracks threshold
We investigate any crack wider than 1mm, particularly if it is diagonal, stepped through brickwork, or appears to be widening. Many small cracks are caused by normal settlement or seasonal movement — especially in Midlands properties on clay soils — and are cosmetic. Our inspection gives you a clear answer rather than guesswork.
Common issues we inspect
- Cracks in brickwork, plaster, or render
- Settlement or suspected subsidence
- Chimney movement or leaning
- Roof spread or beam deflection
- Movement around window or door openings
- Bowing or leaning walls
- Structural problems flagged by surveyors or lenders
- Impact of nearby trees or drains
Who we work with
- Homebuyers needing an engineer's opinion after a survey
- Homeowners concerned about new or worsening cracks
- Sellers preparing for sale and wanting to address concerns in advance
- Landlords and property managers
- Builders before alterations begin