The Structural Detective™

Not just a service, it’s how we think.

Before we put pen to paper or open a CAD file, we do something different: we investigate.

Structural Investigations

The Structural Detective™ is our method, a calm, curious, forensic approach to understanding existing buildings before any design decisions are made. It’s not an add-on. It’s built into the way we work.

Talk to a Structural Engineer

You’ll receive calm, methodical insight into your building – giving you clarity and confidence before any design or construction decisions are made.

Provide a few details below and we’ll guide the next steps.

Talk With Us

We start by asking:

What’s going on here? What’s this building trying to tell us?

Whether it’s a visible crack, a planned change of use, or a complex refurbishment, we look beneath the surface. We question assumptions, trace the building’s history, and gather evidence that reveals how the structure really works and why it might not be.

1: Initial Consultation

We begin by understanding your project goals, requirements, and constraints.

We’ll review any existing documentation, such as architectural drawings or site surveys.

2: Conceptual Design

Our engineers develop initial design concepts, considering factors like materials, loads, structural efficiency and embodied carbon.

We work closely with architects, contractors, and other stakeholders to ensure the design aligns with the overall project vision.

3: Detailed Calculations

Using advanced software tools such as Robot, Tedds, and Tekla Structural Designer, we perform precise calculations for all structural elements.

This ensures the design meets safety, performance, and regulatory requirements.

4: Final Design and Documentation

We provide detailed drawings, reports, and calculations for review and approval.

Our documentation is clear, accurate, and ready for submission to building control or other authorities.

5: Ongoing Support

We remain available throughout the project to address any queries or adapt the design as needed.

Why Our Method Matters

Too often, structural advice is based on guesswork, outdated drawings, or quick site visits.

That’s not how we work.

By taking the time to properly investigate your building, we can:

Spot issues early before they become expensive mistakes
Design smarter solutions that fit the reality on site
Give you advice you can trust based on evidence, not assumptions

Book a Discovery Call

What Being a Structural Detective Means

Every building has a backstory.

Before we make any structural recommendation, we aim to understand:

How it was built
How it’s changed over time
What it’s telling us through signs like cracks, movement, or materials

Our investigations might include:

Reviewing old drawings or records
Visual inspections and monitoring
Careful intrusive works to expose foundations, wall build-ups, or hidden defects

Once we’ve built the full picture, then we recommend action

Who We Help

Building Owners

Understand the true condition of your property before committing to costly works

Developers

De-risk projects by uncovering structural constraints early

Property Managers

Maintain safe, compliant buildings with informed planning

Let’s Talk About Your Building

Experience You Can Trust

Being a Structural Detective takes more than a toolbox it takes experience, technical judgement, and a sharp eye for detail.

Our engineers are qualified, experienced, and specialised in existing buildings
We’ve carried out thousands of investigations across schools, offices, homes, and heritage sites
We bring confidence, clarity, and credibility from day one

Services We Offer

Structural Investigations
Defect Diagnosis (cracks, movement, subsidence)
Maintenance & Refurbishment Advice
Foundation & Load Assessments

Get a Bespoke Quote

Start with Understanding

If you’re working with an existing building, don’t jump straight to solutions. Start with understanding.

That’s what The Structural Detective™ is all about.