1. Basis of the Service
The assessment undertaken by Pieter Swanepoel Structural Assessments is a visual, non-invasive structural assessment based solely on conditions that were reasonably observable and accessible at the time of inspection. It represents the professional opinion of the assessor and is intended to identify significant structural defects and risks evident during the inspection.
The assessment is not a comprehensive structural investigation, engineering design review, compliance certificate, property valuation, guarantee or warranty. No destructive testing, opening-up of building elements, specialist testing or laboratory analysis is undertaken unless specifically agreed in writing.
No responsibility is accepted for concealed, inaccessible, latent, progressive or future defects or for changes occurring after the inspection due to deterioration, maintenance, alterations, weather, ground movement, loading or environmental conditions, including coastal exposure.
The report reflects the condition of the structure only at the date of inspection and should not be relied upon as a prediction of future structural performance. Unless specifically included within the agreed scope, no cost estimates, repair specifications, contractor recommendations, engineering design or statutory certification are provided.
To the maximum extent permitted by law, no warranties, whether express or implied, are given regarding the structural condition, future structural performance or compliance with applicable statutory requirements. The total liability of Pieter Swanepoel Structural Assessments arising from the assessment shall not exceed the professional fee paid for the assessment.
2. Purpose of the Service
This service provides an independent professional opinion on the visible structural behaviour and condition of a building to assist with:
Property purchase and sale decisions
Pre-sale risk clarity
Crack assessment and classification
Foundation and floor movement concerns
Structural risk awareness for estate agents, buyers, sellers, attorneys and property owners
The assessment focuses on structural behaviour and does not constitute a general property inspection.
3. Scope of the Service
The assessment may include:
Visual inspection of accessible areas
Identification and classification of structural cracks
Evaluation of settlement or subsidence indicators
Assessment of floor level behaviour, where relevant
Visual assessment of roof condition and a professional opinion on the probable cause and associated structural risk
A concise written report with photographs, where appropriate
Roof Access Limitations
Fee proposals are based on visual inspections that can be carried out safely without specialist access equipment. Roofs requiring work at significant heights, steep roof slopes, fragile roof coverings, or the use of ladders, scaffolding, fall-arrest systems, elevated work platforms or similar specialist access methods may require a revised fee proposal.
4. Exclusions
Unless specifically agreed in writing, the following are excluded:
Destructive testing or opening of finishes
Compliance certification
Waterproofing assessments
Moisture or damp investigations
Electrical, plumbing, mechanical, fire protection or HVAC systems
Structural design verification
Load capacity calculations
Geotechnical investigations
Hazardous materials, including asbestos
5. Deliverable
Clients will receive:
A concise written structural opinion report
Crack classification, where applicable
Structural risk categorisation (Low / Monitor / Investigate Further)
Practical recommendations for appropriate next steps
Reports are typically issued within two to three working days following the inspection, subject to the complexity of the assessment.
6. Payment Terms
Payments are due on presentation of an invoice. The report will be issued once cleared payment has been received, unless otherwise agreed in writing.
Secure electronic payment methods are accepted.
7. Reliance on the Report
Reports are prepared solely for the client named in the report and for the purpose for which it was commissioned. No responsibility or liability is accepted to any third party who may rely upon the reports, in whole or in part, without the prior written consent of Pieter Swanepoel Structural Assessments.
