Structural Inspections
A structural inspection by a qualified RPEQ engineer gives you an expert assessment of the load-bearing elements of a building — the foundations, slabs, framing, beams, walls and connections that determine whether a structure is safe and sound. Unlike a general building inspection, a structural inspection focuses specifically on the structural integrity of the building and can identify defects that a standard inspector would not be qualified to evaluate.
Brisbane Structures provides structural inspections for property buyers undertaking due diligence before purchase, sellers who want to understand and disclose the condition of their property, and property owners concerned about cracking, movement, settlement or other structural symptoms. Our RPEQ engineers inspect, assess, report and — where needed — provide recommendations for remediation and repair.
Our inspection reports are written in plain language, include photographs and annotated diagrams, clearly separate cosmetic from structural concerns, and provide a prioritised list of issues and recommended actions. If further investigation is needed — such as a geotechnical assessment — we will tell you so clearly and explain why.
Know exactly what you are buying before you sign. Identify structural defects, movement and safety risks in the property.
Cracking, movement, doors sticking, sloping floors — get an engineer's assessment of what's happening and what to do.
Structural reports for insurance claims, dispute resolution, QBCC complaints, and legal proceedings.
Structural assessments for commercial buildings, industrial facilities, and multi-tenancy properties before purchase or lease.
Inspection Scope
A Brisbane Structures inspection examines the structural elements of the property systematically, from the substructure up. Each element is assessed for condition, adequacy and any signs of distress or deterioration.
Structural vs Building Inspection
A standard building inspection — the one most buyers arrange as part of their due diligence — is performed by a building inspector (not an engineer) and covers the general condition of the property: roof covering, gutters, wet areas, visible plumbing and electrical issues, pest activity, and general defects visible at the time of inspection.
A structural inspection, on the other hand, is performed by an RPEQ structural engineer who is specifically trained to assess the load-bearing elements of the structure. An engineer can identify the cause of cracking (cosmetic shrinkage vs foundation movement), assess whether a slab has settled beyond safe limits, determine whether a roof frame has spread or is inadequately tied down, and quantify the risk of the defect — not just note that it exists.
For most properties in good condition, a building inspection is sufficient. But for older homes, homes with visible cracking or movement, homes that have been extended or altered, flood-affected homes, and homes on reactive clay soils (which covers much of Brisbane), a structural inspection provides a level of analysis that a building inspector simply cannot offer.
Many buyers order both: a building inspection for the general condition, and a structural inspection by an RPEQ engineer for peace of mind on the structure. Brisbane Structures can coordinate with your building inspector to ensure the two reports are complementary and cover all bases.
Fast, thorough and professionally documented
Contact us with the property address and your timeline. We'll confirm a fixed fee and an inspection date promptly.
Our RPEQ engineer conducts a thorough on-site inspection of all accessible structural elements.
We prepare a detailed written report with photographs, defect classifications and recommended actions.
Your signed RPEQ report is delivered within 48 hours — ready for your solicitor, agent or insurer.
Common Questions
A building inspection is done by a building inspector and covers general defects. A structural inspection is done by an RPEQ structural engineer who specifically evaluates load-bearing elements — foundations, slabs, framing, beams and walls — to assess structural integrity and identify safety concerns.
Foundation movement and subsidence, slab cracking, wall crack patterns (cosmetic vs structural), beam defects, timber decay, termite damage to structural members, roof framing damage, and any evidence of unauthorised structural modifications. Each defect is classified by severity with recommended remediation.
Yes — particularly for older homes, homes with visible cracking, homes that have been renovated or extended, homes in flood-prone areas, and homes on reactive clay soils (which covers much of Brisbane). A structural inspection can identify serious defects that a standard building inspection may not detect.
A residential structural inspection in Brisbane typically costs between $500–$1,500 depending on property size, access and the scope required. We provide a fixed-fee quote within 24 hours so you know exactly what to expect before booking.
Brisbane Structures delivers written structural inspection reports within 48 hours of the site inspection. For pre-purchase inspections with tight cooling-off periods, expedited turnaround is available — contact us to discuss your deadline.
Yes. A structural engineer assesses crack patterns, location, width and associated movement to determine whether cracks are caused by foundation movement, differential settlement, thermal expansion, shrinkage or overloading — and whether the cracking is cosmetic or structurally significant, with recommendations for remediation.