Foundation Cracks and Structural Issues.
Foundation Cracks and Structural Issues
We have highly experienced surveyors on hand to help identify foundation cracks and structural issues with a property.
The presence of cracks in your walls can be a major concern when they begin to appear throughout your home. More often than not, cracks indicate that your house’s structure and stability may be compromised and you need to act immediately. As property surveyors, we can assist you in identifying minor and major structural issues and help in determining whether further investigation is required. A professional should always assess any cracks in walls to determine whether it is a more serious issue. When the foundation cracks and structural issues go unrepaired, the foundation may be weak and move, putting the property at risk. Feel free to contact us at Andrew James Property Surveyors if you’re concerned about cracks in your new home’s walls.
Foundation Cracks and Subsidence
The fabric of a property is considered by our surveyors when determining how it will support vertical and lateral loads.
As a result, the building’s structural components, such as roof, walls and floors are assessed to ensure they will provide adequate strength at all times. In spite of the fact that dwellings can be built in many different shapes and sizes, they must all comply with constructional principles in order to prevent failure when built and when faced with reasonable loads. The walls are usually laterally supported by load-bearing masonry, interior partitions, wall plates, floor joists and ceiling joists.
There are many issues that can impact external wall structures, but when our surveyors discover ongoing movement, it can cause the most distress to potential buyers and vendors. As discussed in previous topics, movement can often be caused by inadequate or defective drainage, age of the drainage is in many cases, a cause of failure. It is possible for downpipes and rainwater fittings to drain away close to a wall’s base, causing the ground beneath it to erode, which can lead to poor support for the walls above. In older properties, particularly those with clay drainage pipes, which have little protection against ground movement, defective drainage is another major cause of erosion.
We frequently encounter long-standing and non-progressive movement when our surveyors observe cracking that appears old. The movement is usually seen in properties that are situated near mining operations/areas. A collapse of a deep mine shaft can cause movement of buildings on the surface. If the movement is not significant, it is called mining tilt and is not usually a cause for concern.
Upon finding ongoing movement by our Surveyor, a Structural Engineer may need to conduct further investigation and may need to dig trial pits along the foundations for them to examine the subsurface for stability. The Surveyor may recommend the commissioning of a structural engineer if the movement is suspected so that they can provide a structural adequacy certificate which may be requested by building insurance.
Cracks forming in walls
Cracks forming in walls
If you would like more information about cracks in walls, cracks caused by foundation movement and subsidence, please feel free to contact our team today.
Residential Valuations across Tyne and Wear
As RICS-registered valuers, we provide accurate, independent and professionally prepared building valuations across Tyne and Wear. Our valuations are carried out in accordance with current RICS standards and are suitable for a wide range of formal and statutory purposes, including:
- Help to Buy and Shared Ownership
- Probate and Inheritance Tax matters
- Matrimonial or Divorce proceedings
- Insurance Reinstatement Costings and assessments
- Re-mortgaging and Independent Valuations
- Independent Asset Valuations
All valuations are carried out to RICS standards, ensuring professionalism, accuracy, and reliability.
Why Choose Andrew James Property Surveyors in Tyne and Wear?
- RICS-Accredited Expertise: Our reports and property valuations meet the highest professional standards.
- Regional Knowledge: Based in the North East, our surveyors have extensive experience across Tyne and Wear’s varied residential property market, from period homes to modern developments.
- Personal Service: Our surveyors maintain a small case load, so every client receives prompt attention and detailed care.
- Post-Report Review Call: Every client benefits from a personal follow-up call with the surveyor to discuss findings and next steps.
- Clear and Understandable Reports: No jargon – just transparent insights you can act on.
- Impartial Advice: We work solely for you, our client.
Whether you are purchasing your first home, expanding your Tyne and Wear property portfolio, or preparing a property for sale, we provide the clarity and reassurance needed to make informed decisions.
What Our Clients Say
“We chose Andrew James Property Surveyors based on their excellent reputation. In a very short timeframe after contacting them, they scheduled a Homebuyers Survey (Level 2) for a price we considered to be very reasonable. Within 5 days of completing the survey, they sent a detailed report that was easy to understand and clearly outlined the areas to focus on for us and our solicitors. I couldn’t have asked for a better service. Andrew James Property Surveyors is definitely a company I would recommend.”
— Mr Alan B
“Exceptional service. We booked to have a Level 3 survey and valuation done on a property we were hoping to purchase. Both the survey and valuation were very thorough and I felt like no stone was left unturned. Andy was amazing, calling the same day the reports were issued to help understand the conclusions, plus we knew we could call if we had any further queries. We felt like we were in very safe hands and that we’d really been looked after. What a great team! Will definitely use them again.”
— Jane Paterson
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I really need a building survey?
Yes – even newer homes can hide issues that aren’t visible during a viewing. A professional survey gives you peace of mind and leverage in negotiations.
Which survey level should I choose?
For modern properties in good condition, a Level 2 Home Buyers Report is often sufficient. For older homes, listed buildings, or properties with extensions, a Level 3 Building Survey is recommended. We’re happy to advise on the best option.
Are your valuations accepted by lenders and official bodies?
Absolutely. As a RICS-accredited practice, all our valuations meet the required professional standards and can be used for official purposes.
How quickly will I receive my report?
We aim to deliver reports within five working days of inspection – and we’ll call you personally to explain the findings.
Pricing and Quotes
Every property is unique, so we provide tailored quotes based on the type, age, and location of the building. You’ll receive a clear, all-inclusive price before we begin, with no hidden fees. For an accurate quote, simply contact us using the details below.
Get a Quote Today
Find peace of mind with a professional building survey or valuation in Tyne and Wear.
Our qualified RICS surveyors are ready to help you make an informed decision about your next property purchase.
Call: 03301 749 745
Email: admin@andrewjamessurveyors.co.uk or info@andrewjamessurveyors.co.uk
Or fill in our Get a Quote form and we’ll respond promptly.
