Structural Survey For Homebuyers Report On Victorian Property

Structural Survey of a Victorian Property for a Prospective Homebuyer

Introduction

In this structural survey case study, Wilson Engineering was commissioned to evaluate a Victorian property on behalf of a client considering the purchase for her family. The instruction followed concerns highlighted in an initial report by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS), which pointed to potential structural issues, particularly movement at the front of the property and a history of subsidence at the rear.

Objective

The primary goal of our structural survey was to investigate and provide a detailed assessment of the structural integrity of the property, focusing on areas of concern identified in the RICS survey report. This included a thorough examination of the property’s front, where movement had been reported, and evaluating the significance of large cracks observed around the bay window.

Findings

• Severe Movement Indicators: Our inspection revealed large cracks around the bay window, confirming significant movement at the front of the property. These cracks were consistent with structural movement and warranted further investigation.
• Subsidence History: The property’s history of subsidence at the rear was corroborated by our findings, indicating a pattern of structural issues that could potentially affect the entire building.
• Risk to Potential Buyers: Given the visible signs of distress and the property’s historical structural problems, we highlighted the potential risks associated with purchasing a property with such concerns. Our report aimed to provide the client with a comprehensive understanding of the structural challenges and the possible need for remedial works.

Conclusion and Recommendations

Based on our structural survey, we advised the client of the potential risks and financial implications of purchasing a property with significant structural movement and a history of subsidence. Our recommendations included:

• Further Investigations: We suggested engaging in more detailed structural investigations, such as a geotechnical survey, to assess the underlying causes of the movement and subsidence.
• Consideration of Long-term Implications: We highlighted the importance of considering the long-term implications of owning a property with known structural issues, including the impact on insurance premiums and resale value.

Client Guidance

Our structural survey report provided the client with vital information to make an informed decision regarding the property purchase. By outlining the structural concerns and potential implications, we aimed to ensure that the client was fully aware of the risks involved and could consider the necessary steps to mitigate these risks if they decided to proceed with the purchase.

Summary

Wilson Engineering’s structural survey of the Victorian property underscored the importance of thorough structural assessments in the homebuying process, particularly for older properties with a history of structural issues. Our findings and recommendations aimed to empower the client with the knowledge needed to navigate the complexities of purchasing a property with significant structural concerns.