The short answer
A structural engineer's report in the UK usually costs £200–£1,200, depending on what's being inspected and how detailed the written findings need to be. A focused crack assessment often starts around £200, a roof or single-element survey tends to fall around £250–£600, and a full whole-house or subsidence investigation usually lands at £500–£1,200. A short on-site inspection on its own is commonly around £175–£350. The figure depends on the size and age of the property, how serious the issue looks, and whether you need a brief letter or a detailed written report for a lender, solicitor or insurer.
A 'report' can mean anything from a one-line opinion to a detailed written assessment, which is why prices vary so much. Knowing the type you need helps you read a quote and compare fairly.
Typical UK report costs
- Site inspection~£175–£350
- Crack assessmentfrom ~£200
- Roof / single element~£250–£600
- Full / subsidence report~£500–£1,200
- Drives the pricescope & complexity
What the different reports cover
- Site inspection: the engineer visits, looks at the issue and gives an opinion — sometimes verbally, sometimes as a short letter.
- Crack or defect assessment: a focused look at a specific problem, with written findings on cause and whether it's structural.
- Roof or single-element survey: assessment of one part of the structure, such as roof timbers or a chimney.
- Full structural or subsidence report: a detailed whole-house or movement assessment, often needed by a lender, insurer or solicitor.
| Report type | Typical figure | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Site inspection | ~£175–£350 | look & advise |
| Crack assessment | from ~£200 | is it structural? |
| Roof / single element | ~£250–£600 | one part of the structure |
| Full / subsidence report | ~£500–£1,200 | whole-house or movement |
Indicative UK figures for guidance. Sources: HomeOwners Alliance and Checkatrade cost guides.
What changes the figure
The same report can cost more on a larger or older property, where there's more to inspect, and where the suspected problem is serious enough to need monitoring or further investigation. London and the South East typically sit toward the upper end. A short inspection often comes with the option to upgrade to a written report later, so it's worth asking up front whether you need a formal document for a lender, solicitor or insurer — that decides the deliverable, and the price.
Want a written structural report?
We'll match you with a vetted chartered structural engineer who inspects the issue and provides a clear written report on what was found and what to do next.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a structural engineer report cost?
Usually £200–£1,200 depending on type. A crack assessment often starts around £200, a roof or single-element survey around £250–£600, and a full whole-house or subsidence report around £500–£1,200. A short inspection on its own is commonly £175–£350.
What's the difference between an inspection and a report?
An inspection is the engineer visiting to look and advise, sometimes verbally. A report is a written document setting out what was inspected, what was found and what to do — usually what a lender, solicitor or insurer will want.
How quickly can a structural engineer inspect a crack?
For urgent issues, same-day or next-day visits are common. It's worth asking when you request matching whether a fast visit is available if movement or a crack has you concerned.
Sources & further reading
Figures on this page are typical UK ranges drawn from published sources and depend on your specific project. They are guidance, not a quotation.