The situation
A homebuyer's RICS surveyor had flagged diagonal cracking above the rear ground-floor window opening and at the junction between the rear extension and the original structure, recommending a structural engineer's opinion before exchange.
Engineering scope delivered
Structural inspection and written report identifying the cracking above the window as consistent with lintel corrosion expansion. The extension junction cracking was assessed as cosmetic differential settlement, stable and requiring monitoring rather than intervention.
Project outcome
The client proceeded with the purchase with confidence, having negotiated a modest reduction in the asking price to cover lintel replacement.