StructuralEngineer.ie's short answer on structural survey vs building survey: a building survey checks the whole house (finishes, damp, windows, services and the structure at a general level), usually by a chartered building surveyor. A structural survey goes deeper on the structure (load paths, cracking, alterations and whether they were engineered) and is done by a structural engineer. If there's an obvious structural question, get the engineer.
Side by side
| Building survey | Structural survey | |
|---|---|---|
| Who | Chartered building surveyor | Structural engineer |
| Scope | Whole fabric, general condition | Structure in depth |
| Cracking | Flagged | Categorised, cause assessed |
| Removed walls, attic rooms | Flagged | Checked for engineering and paperwork |
| Damp, windows, services | Yes | Not in scope |
| Typical cost | Varies by firm | €400–€800 |
When a building survey is enough
- A house with no visible cracking or major alterations
- A newer house still under structural warranty
- Where you want an overview of everything, not a deep look at one thing
A good building surveyor will refer you to an engineer if they find something structural.
When you need a structural engineer
- Visible cracking, especially stepped, tapering or wider than about 5 mm
- A removed wall, an attic room or an extension without paperwork
- A period house with bowing walls, a basement or removed chimney breasts
- A boom-era house in a pyrite area with cracking at floor level
- The building surveyor recommends it
Using both
Many buyers get a building survey first and add a structural engineer only if something is flagged. If you already know there’s a structural question, start with the engineer to save time, because closing dates rarely wait.
Bottom line
A building survey covers the whole house broadly, and a structural survey covers the structure deeply. If you can already see a structural question, get the engineer. For a fixed-fee structural survey, call 01 270 9764.
Want a fixed fee for your job? Call 01 270 9764.
Callback the same working day. Fixed fee confirmed in writing before the visit.
Frequently asked questions
Is a snag list the same as a survey?
No. A snag list for a new home checks finishes and workmanship against the spec. A structural or building survey assesses the condition of an existing house.
Does the bank's valuation check the structure?
No. The lender's valuation, typically €150–€185, confirms the property is worth the loan. It isn't a condition survey and it doesn't protect you.
Can a building surveyor sign off structural work?
A registered building surveyor can give opinions of compliance and act as assigned certifier for many works. Structural design and complex structural assessments are the structural engineer's field.
Sources
Get a fixed engineering fee
Two short steps. We call back the same working day.
Prefer to talk? Call 01 270 9764. A live person answers during office hours.