Structural Inspection vs. Home Inspection: What’s the Difference
When buying a home or even maintaining the existing one, you already know that a home inspection covers everything you need to know. However, a standard home inspection might not go deep enough when structural issues are suspected. That’s the time when you need a structural inspection to proceed.
Understanding the difference while discussing a structural inspection vs a home inspection can save you time, money, and stress.
What is a Home Inspection
A home inspection is a general, non-invasive evaluation of a property’s overall condition. It is typically ordered during the home-buying process to give buyers a snapshot of what they are going to invest in before they finalize the deal.
A Typical Home Inspection Includes
A home inspection is a check of:
- Roof condition
- HVAC systems
- Electrical and plumbing systems
- Appliances
- Interior and exterior walls
- Windows and doors
- Attic and crawlspaces
- Basic signs of water intrusion or mold
- Signs of foundation movement or cracks
The home inspectors are trained to assess all major systems, but they are not specialists in every area. If the home inspectors see a sagging floor, cracks in walls, or a leaning chimney, they’ll recommend calling a structural engineer for further evaluation.
A Structural Inspection Covers
The structural inspection is a detailed check of:
- Foundation condition
- Load-bearing walls and framing
- Roof structure and trusses
- Floor joists and beams
- Settlement, cracking, and deflection in the structure
- Retaining walls and support systems
- Any known or suspected structural damage from water, termites, fire, etc.
Structural Inspection vs Home Inspection: Key Differences
There are some key differences between structural inspection and home inspection:
| Feature | Home Inspection | Structural Inspection |
| Performed by | Licensed home inspector | Licensed structural engineer |
| Scope | General system and components | Structural integrity and load-bearing elements |
| Purpose | Identify visible issues | Diagnose and evaluate structural concerns |
| Depth of Analysis | Surface-level evaluation | In-depth engineering assessment |
| Common Use Cases | Real estate transaction | Structural concerns, foundation movement, severe cracking |
Why Do You Need a Structural Inspection
Not all homes need a structural inspection. If you are dealing with any of the following, then the structural inspection for your home is not recommended, but it is essential.
Signs to Have a Structural Inspection
The following are the major signs:
- Cracks in the foundation
- Slopping or uneven floors
- Doors and windows that stick or don’t align
- Sagging rooflines or bowing walls
- Major water damage near the foundation or framing
- Visible signs of structural shifting
- After a natural disaster such as flooding, an earthquake, or a tornado
What Happens During a Structural Inspection
Structural inspections are methodical and focused. A structural engineer will begin by asking about the property’s history and evaluating the effects of renovations, water issues, and other causes of damage.
Process of Structural Inspection
The process of a structural inspection consists of the following steps:
- Measuring floor slope and deflection
- Inspecting foundation walls, crawl spaces, or slabs
- Assessing wall cracking patterns
- Examining the roof and attic structure
- Identifying structural load paths
- Documenting all findings with notes and photographs
After completing the inspection, the engineer prepares a formal report that outlines:
- What was inspected
- Any problems found
- Recommended repairs
- About the safety of the structure
- If further evaluation is needed
Purpose of a Structural Inspection
While a home inspection is associated with real estate deals, the structural inspections are just as valuable for homeowners who aren’t moving. It clarifies the actual condition of the structure and provides peace of mind if the structural integrity is good.
Reasons to Schedule a Structural Inspection
There are some reasons people choose structural inspections:
- Before remodeling or adding an extension
- After foundation repairs to verify stability
- To obtain a structural letter for a permit
- After flooding, fire, or termite damage
- To investigate recurring cracks or moisture issues
Can You Rely on Home Inspection Alone
If this concern is raised during a debate of structural inspection vs home inspection, then
You can’t rely only on a home inspection if there are some signs of structural damage or a major structural concern in your home.
The home inspection is a first line of defense; it is designed to catch red flags and alert you to conditions that require expert attention. If your inspector spots symptoms of structural damage, you must go for a structural inspection.
Conclusion
When it comes to structural inspection vs home inspection, one doesn’t replace the other. Instead, they both work hand-in-hand to give you a full picture of the condition of the property. A home inspection is the bigger picture of the home, while a structural inspection is an evaluation of the structural components.
If you notice any cracks, dips, or signs of foundation movement, or your home inspector has raised concerns related to the structural integrity of your home, you should get a structural inspection as soon as possible to catch the problem at the initial stage. It can save you from a major loss.