Structural Inspections and Independent Engineering Advice
Renovating an existing house can uncover cracking, movement, deterioration and structural work that was not shown on the drawings—or was never properly designed.
Cornell Engineers provides structural inspections, investigations and engineering reports for selected home renovation projects across Brisbane.
We are particularly suited to situations where a homeowner, builder or building designer needs an experienced structural engineer to inspect an existing building, identify the problem and recommend a practical way forward.
Before You Renovate
An inspection before design or construction can identify structural issues that may affect the renovation.
We can investigate:
- cracking and building movement;
- sloping or uneven floors;
- deteriorated timber, steel, concrete or masonry;
- previous alterations or additions;
- walls or columns proposed for removal;
- existing decks, patios and extensions;
- foundation and footing concerns; and
- drainage conditions affecting the house.
Our advice may be provided during the inspection, by email or in a written engineering report, depending on what is required.
Problems Found During Renovations
Older Brisbane houses do not always match their drawings. In many cases, there are no reliable drawings at all.
Once demolition begins, builders may uncover:
- unsupported walls or beams;
- inadequate structural connections;
- termite or moisture damage;
- corroded steelwork;
- poorly constructed alterations;
- inadequate footings;
- unexpected framing arrangements; or
- cracking and movement requiring investigation.
Cornell Engineers can inspect the exposed structure, assess its condition and recommend what should happen next. Where appropriate, we may prepare a structural detail for a specific repair or alteration.
Cracking and Movement
Cracks do not necessarily mean that a house is structurally unsafe. However, their cause should be understood before new finishes conceal them.
Movement may be associated with:
- reactive clay soils;
- foundation movement;
- poor site drainage;
- leaking water or stormwater pipes;
- deteriorated stumps, posts or bearers;
- inadequately supported alterations; or
- normal building movement and ageing.
We identify the likely cause, explain its significance and recommend appropriate investigation, monitoring or repairs.
Independent Engineering Reports
We can also provide independent engineering reports where there is disagreement about renovation work, structural damage or the adequacy of repairs.
Reports may be prepared for:
- homeowners;
- builders and building consultants;
- insurers and loss adjusters;
- body corporates; and
- legal representatives.
Cornell Engineers does not undertake every type of home renovation design. Our focus is on structural inspections, investigations, reports and selected engineering work where our experience can add the most value.