Construction inspection package
Inspections at key stages during construction to confirm the structure is built as designed.
About this package
The construction inspection package provides engineer's inspections at the key stages of a build, to confirm the structure is built as designed. It covers the foundation excavation before concrete goes in, reinforcement or steelwork before it is concealed, and a final post-works inspection once the structural work is complete. One fixed fee covers all three visits and their written reports.
It suits homeowners who want independent confirmation that their builder has followed the design, clients financing a project who need a record for a lender, and developers who want inspection reports for their files. It is also useful where the structure is less routine, such as large steel frames, transfer beams or basements, where errors are costly to correct once they are concealed.
Inspections are most valuable when they are timed correctly, and that is where bundling helps. Booking all three at the start means the visits are planned around your build programme, and your builder knows when to call us. Each report builds on the last, giving you a complete record of the structure from the ground up that supports Building Control's completion sign-off.
What the package brings together
- Foundation inspection
- Reinforcement or steelwork inspection
- Post-works inspection
Stages
- Foundation inspectionBefore concrete is poured, we check that the excavation has reached suitable ground, that the dimensions match the design, and that roots, soft spots or old drains have been dealt with properly.
- Reinforcement or steelwork inspectionBefore reinforcement is concreted or steelwork is boxed in, we check bar sizes, spacing and cover, or beam sizes, bearings, padstones and connections, against the design drawings.
- Post-works inspectionOnce the structural work is complete, we inspect the finished structure where visible and confirm in writing that it has been completed in line with the design, noting any outstanding items.
Who it suits
- Homeowners wanting independent checks on their builder
- Projects with large steel frames or long spans
- Basements and reinforced concrete retaining walls
- Lenders asking for a record of structural work
- Developers keeping inspection records for sale
How it works
Frequently asked questions
Does Building Control not already inspect?
Building Control inspects at key stages to check compliance with the Building Regulations, but its visits are limited and it does not act for you. Our inspections check the work against the structural design in more detail, on your behalf, and give you a written record. The two are complementary, and our reports can support Building Control's sign-off.
How much notice do you need for each inspection?
We agree the likely timing at the start based on your builder's programme, and ask for confirmation a few working days before each stage. Concrete pours and steel deliveries are often arranged at short notice, so your builder should keep us informed as dates firm up. We plan visits so the trades are not left waiting.
What happens if a problem is found?
We explain it on site where we can, and record it in the report with what needs to change. Common issues include shallow excavations, missing padstones, incorrect bolts or poor reinforcement cover, and most are simple to fix at this point. If the design needs adjusting, our structural design revision service handles it.
Can you inspect work designed by another engineer?
Yes, provided we have the approved drawings and calculations to inspect against. We check the work against that design and report what we find. If we have concerns about the design itself, we raise them with you so you can discuss them with the original designer. A post-works structural inspection can also be booked on its own.