Structural Inspection – 4 Key Benefits of Structural Inspection for Building Safety

What is Structural Inspection?

A structural inspection is a detailed inspection of a building/structure to make sure it’s safe for us.It is usually done by a licensed structural engineer who examines parts of a building that support weight like beams, columns, roofs, and foundations.

These inspections are done in homes, offices, industrial plants, and other facilities to find damage, weaknesses, or risks that could lead to future problems.

Why is Structural Inspection Important?

• For Homeowners: It reveals hidden structural issues before buying or selling a property.
• For Industries: It helps prevent costly accidents and shutdowns by catching issues early.
• For Safety: A strong structure prevents damage from natural disasters, heavy loads, or poor construction.

When Do You Need a Structural Inspection?

• When you notice cracks in walls, floors, or ceilings.
• when Doors and windows are hard to open or misaligned.

• Floors are uneven or sagging.
• You’re buying or selling a home.
• After a flood, earthquake, or fire
• During renovations or adding extra load (like a second story)

Types of Structural Inspection (Based on Standards and Purpose)

Structural inspections can be categorized based on purpose and the codes or standards used:

i) Residential Structural Inspection

Done for homes or buildings, especially when:

• Buying/selling
• Renovating
• Issues like wall cracks, sloping floors, or roof damage are visible

ii) Commercial/Industrial Structural Inspection

Covers factories, refineries, and other large facilities. It ensures the safety of:

• Support structures.
• Pipe racks.
• Cooling towers.
• Steel frames.
• Concrete platforms.

Codes followed:

• AISC 360 & 325 – Steel structures
• ACI 318 – Concrete structures
• ASCE 7 – Load requirements (wind, earthquake, snow, etc.)
• AWS D1.1 – Welding standards

iii) Foundation Inspection

Checks for:

• Cracks or sinking
• Soil issues
• Water drainage problems

iV) Roof and Floor Framing Inspection

Evaluates sagging, damaged joists, or load-bearing issues.

V) Safety Structure Inspection (OSHA 1910 Subpart D)

Inspects ladders, walking surfaces, platforms to meet workplace safety rules.

 

Methods Used in Structural Inspections

To detect problems, engineers use the following Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) methods:

• Visual Inspection
• Ultrasonic Testing (UT)
• Magnetic Particle Testing (MPT)
• Radiographic Testing (RT)
• Drone or Rope Access for hard-to-reach areas

Common Signs You Might Need a Structural Inspection

i) Inside the Home

• Cracked drywall or ceilings
• Doors/windows that stick or don’t align
• Floors sloping or bouncing
• Water stains on ceilings or walls

ii) Outside the Home

• Cracks in bricks or foundation
• Bulging walls
• Soil pulling away from the house
• Cracked chimneys or sagging porches

What’s Included in a Structural Inspection Report?

A good inspection report includes:

• Scope of Work – What was inspected
• Engineer’s Findings – What’s wrong and why
• Photographs – Visual proof of damage
• Repair Recommendations – What to fix and how
• Cost Estimate – Optional but helpful
• Monitoring Advice – If long-term watch is needed

Final Thoughts—Is It Worth It?

Yes! Spending money on a structural inspection can save you from major losses later. It also builds confidence for buyers and ensures you’re not overlooking safety risks.

If you’re selling, getting an inspection before listing your home helps you fix issues early and set the right asking price.