A structural - or engineering - inspection is above all, an opinion as to the structural condition and integrity of the building or home.

That is, in the opinion of the engineer 1) were the structural elements (foundation, framing, etc.) designed and built to accept the anticipated loads to be placed upon them, and 2) are they continuing to perform their intended function?

The ability to render such an opinion is fundamental to this definition. By law in most states, only a registered Professional Engineer is permitted to render an opinion as to the structural integrity of a building. Certainly others may observe and report defects (rot, cracks, etc.) but an opinion as to their significance can only be rendered by an engineer (or in some cases, an architect).

It must be remembered that an opinion is not a guarantee. There are parallels in all professions. A physical performed by a doctor is not a guarantee of continued good health but an opinion as to your current condition and chances for the future. Similarly, an accountant does not guarantee that your tax return will pass an IRS audit but simply does, what in their opinion, will be best. A lawyer accepts a case based on their opinion of its merits - not the certainty of success.

As with the human body, there are variables in building structures that are not predictable. Soils move in a non-linear fashion. The exact time and amount of movement cannot be predicted. Wood is an imperfect material, subject to swelling, shrinkage, rot, etc. Certain loads are variable by their nature (e.g. snow, wind). And without disassembly, many structural components cannot be seen during an inspection.

The value of a structural inspection then, as in all professions, is largely dependent on the experience and qualifications of the individual who performs it. A registered Professional Engineer has, at a minimum, completed a four year accredited college program, worked for at least four years under the direction of other like professionals, and passed a 16 hour exam. He or she is required by their professional code of ethics to practice only in areas competent to do so and to be accountable for the work they do. Individuals who are in private practice who are not registered (even if they have taken engineering courses) may not call themselves engineers.

BEPC Engineers are registered Professional Engineers with usually at least 10 years of building related experience. They are trained to provide inspections and must participate in peer review and continuing education programs. The following pages outline in greater detail, the actual scope of a structural inspection.