Structural Inspections for Prospective Buyers

Structural Inspections for Prospective Buyers

Prospective buyers often view homes with the intent on making renovations once they purchase. This results in questions that can’t always be answered dur= ing a typical home inspection. A structural inspection may be needed.

Before undertaking a renovation, here are a few things to consider.

1) Is the proposed addition permitted under existing zoning regulations and/or bylaws?<= /span>

Z= oning ordinances are intended to place some order and consistency on what is buil= t within a community. There can be limits = on height and are often limits on "setback" from the property line. = In other words, will your new addition come too close to the edge of your prop= erty to be permitted in your area?

= ·= ; = You may have to comply with historical considerations

= ·= ; = Often, planned communities have aesthet= ic ordinances or restrictive covenants as well.

= ·= ; = Your renovation may be subject to an architectural review board, especially if you live in a condominium communi= ty.

2) How will the new addition tie into the existing structure?

If you are adding on by building up, wi= ll the existing framing and foundation support the new load? You may need an engineer to determine the existing load bearing capacity and/or design some reinforcement. Careful planning is essential.

= ·= ; = Is there going to be a new section of r= oof? How does it tie into the existing roof?

·= ; = Will water run off properly? Where will= it drain?

·= ; = Will there be uncomfortable transitions inside such as too little headroom or poor traffic flow?

5) If, instead of building up, you are building out, the question of a new foundation arises.<= o:p>

·= ; = Will you build on a slab, a crawl space= or basement?

·= ; = What is the condition of the soil? It m= ay not be the same as that on which the house was built. Perhaps construction debris was buried which will have to be removed.

Adding on to your home can be exciting and rewarding, both in added space and increased property value. Any renovations should be planned as carefully as= if building a brand new home.

= Other Reasons for a Structural Inspection:

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Renovations aren’t the only reason for a structural evaluation. Other conditions warranting such an inspection include:

· = When there are cracks in the foundation= or walls

· = When there are sagging floors, twisting stairs or bulging walls.

· = When an appraiser perceives a structural defect

· = When a new home is under construction

· = When you or your client have a concern about the structural integrity of the building

· = When there is fire, flood, or high wind damage

· = When there is carpenter ant, termite or= rot damage

O= nly licensed Professional Engineers can render structural opinions. =

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C= riterium-Jansen Engineers are licensed Professional Engineers with over 15 years of experie= nce providing structural inspections and assessments. We have offices in Toronto, Mississauga and Orangeville and clients= in and around the greater Toronto= area (GTA) including Oakville<= /st1:place>, Burlington, Kitchener, Guelph, Georgetown, Milton and Caledon.