Structural survey report for a specific defect (SSI)
A focused inspection and written report on one defined defect, alteration or structural element, such as a crack, a removed chimney breast or a bowing wall.
About this service
A Specific Structural Inspection report, usually called an SSI, is a written engineer's report on one defined issue. That might be a crack in a rear wall, a removed chimney breast, a bulging gable or a beam that was installed without paperwork. We inspect that element, work out what is causing the problem and set our conclusions down in a report that third parties can rely on.
SSIs are most often requested during a property sale. A RICS surveyor notes something they cannot fully assess and recommends a structural engineer's report, and the lender then holds the mortgage offer until one is provided. Buyers, sellers and landlords also commission SSIs when an insurer asks for evidence or when they want a clear record of a defect before repairs start.
The value of an SSI is that it answers one question properly. Rather than paying for a whole-house inspection when only one item is in doubt, you get a focused opinion on cause, significance and the right next step. Every report is signed off by a chartered engineer who is a Member of the Institution of Civil Engineers (MICE), which gives lenders and solicitors confidence in what they are reading.
In London the typical subjects are familiar. Chimney breasts removed downstairs with the stack left unsupported above. Bay windows that have dropped away from the main wall. Stepped cracks linked to clay shrinkage near street trees. Rear additions that have settled differently from the main house. Each has a recognisable pattern, and a clear explanation helps move a sale or repair forward.
When you need it
- A mortgage lender, buyer or insurer has asked for a structural engineer's report
- You need written evidence about one specific issue
- A surveyor's report has recommended further investigation
What's included
- Inspection of the defined issue
- Assessment of likely cause and structural significance
- Recommendations for repair or further investigation
- Photographs of the key observations
How it works
- Define the issueWe agree exactly what the report will cover, usually from a surveyor's comment, a lender's request or your own description. This keeps the inspection focused and the fixed fee clear before we start.
- InspectionAn engineer inspects the element in question and the structure around it, measuring cracks, checking levels and verticality, and looking for related signs of movement or past alterations.
- Assess cause and significanceWe consider construction, age, ground conditions, nearby trees and drains to establish the likely cause and whether the defect is historic, ongoing or a risk to stability.
- Written reportThe SSI report sets out our observations with photographs, our opinion on cause and significance, and clear recommendations for repair, monitoring or further investigation where needed.
- MICE sign-off and issueThe report is reviewed and signed off by a chartered MICE engineer, then issued to you in a format you can pass to your lender, solicitor, insurer or Building Control.
What you receive
SSI or GSI: which report do you need?
Choose an SSI when there is one clear concern, especially if a surveyor or lender has named it. If the surveyor's report lists several unrelated issues across the house, a General Structural Inspection report is usually better value than several SSIs. Our guide on structural reports for a house purchase explains how lenders tend to treat each type.
Common outcomes range from reassurance that cracking is historic and cosmetic, to a recommendation for monitoring over several months, to a need for repair such as replacing a lintel or supporting a chimney stack. Where the evidence is not conclusive, we may recommend crack monitoring or opening up to confirm what is hidden.
A frequent pitfall is asking for an SSI on the wrong item. Read the surveyor's wording carefully, and send it to us, so the report answers the exact question the lender raised. Also remember an SSI is a visual inspection and does not include calculations, so retrospective approval for unrecorded alterations may need a separate assessment.
Not included
- Inspection of the rest of the property
- Calculations, design or drawings
- Opening up or intrusive investigation
Projects that used this service
Frequently asked questions
What is a Specific Structural Inspection report?
It is a written report by a structural engineer on one defined issue, such as a crack, a removed chimney breast or a bowing wall. It explains what was seen, the likely cause, whether the defect is structurally significant and what should happen next. Ours start from £450 + VAT and are signed off by a chartered MICE engineer.
My mortgage lender wants a structural engineer's report. Is an SSI enough?
In most cases, yes, provided the report addresses the specific item the lender or valuer raised. Send us the valuation or survey wording so we can make sure the scope matches. If the lender has asked about the general structural condition of the property rather than one item, a General Structural Inspection report may be required instead.
Can an SSI confirm a chimney breast removal is safe?
An SSI can confirm whether the remaining chimney masonry above shows signs of distress and whether visible support, such as steel brackets or a beam, appears to be in place. It cannot prove the adequacy of hidden supports without opening up. Where proof is needed, we explain the options, which may include limited opening up or calculations.
Does an SSI include repair design?
No. The report recommends what type of repair is appropriate, but detailed design, drawings and calculations are a separate service. If repair is needed, we can quote for the design once the report is issued, and the findings of the SSI help keep that design brief tight.
Who can rely on the SSI report?
The report is addressed to you as our client and written so that lenders, solicitors, buyers and insurers can understand it. If a lender needs the report addressed to them, or a third party needs formal reliance, tell us at the outset so we can confirm how that will be handled.
What happens if the engineer finds more than one problem?
We note anything significant we see during the visit, even outside the defined issue, because you need to know about it. If further items need proper assessment, we explain whether extending the scope or moving to a General Structural Inspection report makes more sense, and confirm any fee change first.