Jakub (CEng MICE)
Irthlingborough
Retrospective Structural Validation
Report
Completed
Situation
Terry, an experienced builder, had carried out significant internal renovations on his own property 15 years ago. This included the removal of a chimney breast and a load-bearing wall. At the time, the work was completed without a formal structural design or Building Control application
Challenge
When Terry decided to sell the property, the buyer’s solicitor identified the lack of structural documentation. To prevent the sale from falling through, Terry needed a structural engineer to retrospectively verify that the steelwork (RSJs) installed over a decade ago was safe, adequate, and compliant with modern safety standards.
Our Approach
We provided a streamlined verification process to satisfy the legal requirements of the sale:
- Initial Strategy Session: We held a 15-minute video consultation to assess the project. Our goal was to determine if we could verify the steel sizes via non-intrusive methods, saving Terry from having to damage finished walls to expose the beams.
- Detailed Site Survey: Jakub from Rivet Engineering attended the property to record all necessary measurements, identifying the span, loads, and dimensions of the existing structural supports.
- Structural Verification: We performed back-calculations to compare the existing RSJs against the required loads of the building. This confirmed whether the original installation was adequate for the structure.
- Certification & Reporting: We issued a comprehensive structural report and calculation package. This document officially confirmed that the structural elements were appropriate for the design.
- Legal Resolution: Terry presented our certified report to the solicitors, clearing the structural “red flag” and allowing the sale of the property to be completed successfully.
Outcome
By applying professional engineering calculations to existing work, we provided the necessary “peace of mind” for the buyer and the legal proof required by the solicitor. Terry’s sale proceeded without further delay.
Carried Out Structural Work Without Approval?
If you have carried out structural alterations without Building Control approval, such as removing a load-bearing wall or chimney breast, you may face delays or complications when selling your property.
We specialise in retrospective structural verification, helping homeowners, buyers, and solicitors confirm that existing steelwork (RSJs, chimneys) is safe, adequate, and compliant with modern standards.
From initial consultation through to final certification, we make the process clear, efficient, and reliable.
