For those living in or looking to buy older properties in the UK, being aware of potential structural problems is important for safety and preventing costly repairs down the line. Here are 5 key signs to watch out for that may indicate structural issues in an older property:
Cracks in Walls and Ceilings
Cracks are one of the most common indicators of structural movement and instability. Small cracks may appear in plaster over time as a house naturally settles. However, large, spreading cracks are a major red flag. Cracks around windows and doors, diagonal cracks across walls, and cracks in ceilings can signify subsidence issues, roof damage, or problems with load-bearing walls. Monitoring cracks to see if they are increasing over time is wise.
Doors and Windows Sticking or Not Opening/Closing Properly
When doors start sticking in their frames or windows become difficult to open and close, it often means the property is shifting out of alignment or settling unevenly. The window and door frames are moving while the doors and windows themselves remain stationary. This results in misalignment that causes them to jam and catch. It usually indicates sinkage, sagging floors, or other instability in the building’s structure.
Sloping Floors
Floors that are uneven and slope visibly downwards in areas can also signify structural weaknesses. Sloping floors occur when a house settles and shifts over time. If severe, it can destabilise walls, damage roof beams, and cause cracks throughout the property. Carefully check for sloping floors in hallways, kitchens, bedrooms, and living spaces. Also, look for gaps opening up between floors and skirting boards.
Plaster Cracking Around the Middle of Walls
While small cracks at the corners of walls and ceilings are common as properties shift seasonally, straight cracks that run vertically through the middle of walls often mean more serious underlying problems. These types of cracks usually indicate that structural support beams or walls have weakened and are starting to fail. If the crack runs from the ceiling down through the centre of the wall, it likely signifies a failing load-bearing beam.
Wall Bulging or Bowing
Any walls that appear warped, bulging, or bowed outwards can indicate decayed or damaged structural components inside the wall. Damaged or deteriorated supporting beams embedded in walls can lead to noticeable bulging as structural integrity fails. Bulging walls may also indicate issues with the wall ties that hold together the inner and outer skins of cavity walls. If the metal ties corrode, the two wall skins can start to separate. This is a serious issue that requires further inspection and remediation.
Have a Survey Carried Out Before Buying an Older Property
Ask an RICS surveyor to do a full inspection on any older property you are considering buying. RICS accredited surveyors in Norwich can carry out a Level 3 Building Survey, which will look closely at structural problems, their causes, and the estimated cost of fixing them. This will save you money in the long run.
Keep a close eye on your older property for any cracks, sloping, sticking doors or windows, or bowed walls as these are telltale signs of structural weakness. Catching problems early is key to preventing escalation into major safety hazards and very costly repairs down the line. Consult a qualified builder or structural engineer if you have any concerns about your home or one you are thinking of buying.
