Question 1

When should I contact a Structural Engineer?

Accepted Answer

You should contact a structural engineer if you notice significant cracking, uneven or sagging floors, movement in a retaining wall, roof or ceiling sagging, or doors and windows suddenly becoming difficult to open. Engineering advice is also recommended before removing walls, creating new openings or making structural changes to a property.

Question 2

What does a structural engineer do?

Accepted Answer

A structural engineer assesses how buildings and structural elements support loads and remain stable. This may include inspecting existing structures, identifying the likely cause of defects, assessing proposed alterations and recommending appropriate repairs or structural solutions.

Question 3

What is included in a structural inspection?

Accepted Answer

A structural inspection generally includes a visual assessment of the accessible areas relevant to the concern. This may include walls, floors, ceilings, roof framing, foundations, retaining walls, drainage conditions and visible signs of movement or deterioration.

The exact scope of the inspection will be confirmed before the site visit.

Question 4

Are cracks in walls or ceilings always structural?

Accepted Answer

No. Some cracks are caused by normal building movement, shrinkage, moisture changes or minor settlement. Other cracks may indicate foundation movement, structural distress or deterioration.

The crack pattern, location, width and whether it is continuing to change all help determine its significance.

Question 5

How do I know whether a crack is serious?

Accepted Answer

Cracks may require further assessment if they are widening, recurring after repair, appearing diagonally through brickwork, extending through several building elements or occurring together with uneven floors or sticking doors and windows.

A structural inspection can help determine the likely cause and whether repairs or further investigation are required.

Question 6

Can you determine whether a wall is load-bearing?

Accepted Answer

Yes. A structural engineer can assess the wall, surrounding structure, roof or floor framing and any available construction drawings to determine whether the wall is likely to be load-bearing.

In some properties, additional access or investigation may be needed before a definite conclusion can be provided.

Question 7

Do I need a structural engineer before removing a wall?

Accepted Answer

Engineering advice should be obtained before removing or altering a wall whenever there is uncertainty about its structural function. A wall may support the roof, ceiling, floor or concrete slab above, or it may contribute to the lateral stability of the building.

If the wall is structural, a beam, lintel, column or additional footing may be required.

Question 8

Can a brick wall be non-load-bearing?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Some brick walls are used only as internal partitions or infill and do not support the structure above. However, the material alone does not confirm whether the wall is load-bearing.

The engineer must consider the building layout, floor system, roof framing and available drawings.

Question 9

Can you provide a structural report for strata approval?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We can inspect the proposed renovation or structural concern and prepare an engineering report for submission to the strata manager or owners corporation.

The report may include the inspection findings, available drawing review, structural opinion and any recommended conditions or requirements. Final approval remains with the owners corporation or relevant authority.

Question 10

Do I need strata or council approval for structural work?

Accepted Answer

Approval requirements depend on the property, building classification and proposed work. Apartment and townhouse renovations may require strata approval, particularly where structural elements or common property are affected.

Some work may also require approval from council or a building certifier. We recommend confirming the approval pathway before construction begins.

Question 11

What is included in a structural engineering report?

Accepted Answer

Depending on the agreed scope, a structural report may include:
Details of the property and inspection
Description of the concern
Relevant observations and photographs
Assessment of the likely cause
Opinion on structural significance
Recommended repairs or next steps
Inspection limitations
The specific report contents will be outlined in the quotation.

Question 12

What is the difference between a structural inspection and a building inspection?

Accepted Answer

A building inspection generally provides a broad review of the overall condition of a property, including maintenance issues and visible defects.

A structural inspection focuses specifically on structural elements and concerns, such as cracking, movement, walls, floors, framing, foundations and retaining walls.

Frequent Asked Questions