Company No: 16938562
SEVEN | Structural Engineering
We help Clients solve problems and achieve ideas with thier buildings.
What do you need help with ?
Structural Engineers near me
Looking for a “Structural Engineer Near Me” contact our Structural Engineering Design Consultancy covering Derby, Nottingham, Ilkeston, Kimberley, Heanor. Codnor, Ripley, Hucknall, Keyworth, Castle Donnington, Melbourne and all other surrounding areas
If your project needs clear structural guidance without the overhead of a large consultancy, you’re in the right place.We try our best to give advice that suits you, not just your building"
Check our reviews on our google page or get in touch
Structural Engineer in Derby
Structural Engineering in Derby
Structural Engineering in Derby
Designing and building in Derby and the Peak District is a fascinating puzzle for structural engineers. You’re dealing with a literal "layer cake" of industrial history, complex geology, and protected landscapes.
Tunnels and Culverts
The Culvert & Tunnel NetworkOne of Derby’s biggest engineering headaches is what lies beneath the city center. Historically, the Markeaton Brook and its tributaries were culverted to make way for urban expansion.Load Bearing Over "Hollow" Ground: Many central development sites sit directly atop Victorian brick culverts. Structural engineers must often bridge these voids using piled foundations that bypass the tunnels entirely to reach stable ground, or risk catastrophic settlement.The Great Northern Railway (GNR) Tunnels: Abandoned rail tunnels weave under areas like Friar Gate. Building near these requires careful vibration monitoring and specialized retaining structures to ensure that new construction doesn't compromise the integrity of the historic masonry below.
Brownfield Complexities
From Silk Mills to Foundries, Derby was the powerhouse of the Industrial Revolution, leaving behind a legacy of "made ground" (soil that has been altered by human activity).Contamination and Corrosivity: Brownfield sites in Derby often contain heavy metals or chemical byproducts from old foundries and textile mills. Engineers must specify sulfate-resisting concrete for foundations, as these chemicals can literally eat through standard structural concrete over time. Varying Soil Strata: You might find firm Mercia Mudstone in one corner of a site and soft, uncompacted industrial fill in another. This leads to the risk of differential settlement, where one side of a building sinks faster than the other, requiring stiffened raft foundations.
The Peak District: Topography and Limestone
Moving north into the Peaks, the challenges shift from industrial leftovers to raw nature.Slope Stability: Building on the dramatic inclines of the White Peak requires significant retaining wall engineering. Use of "soil nailing" or reinforced earth is common to prevent landslips.Karst Topography: The limestone geology of the Peaks is prone to "solution features"—natural hollows or sinkholes formed by acidic rainwater. Structural surveys often involve Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) to ensure a house isn't being built over a hidden cavern
Nottingham's Cave Network
Local and Historic Materials
When working in the area its important to understand the nuances about the types of materials that was historically usedMillstone Grit: The "backbone" of the Dark Peak. It is a coarse, dark-grey/brown sandstone. It is incredibly hard-wearing and was used for massive structural elements like lintels, quoins (cornerstones), and the heavy mill buildings of the Derwent Valley.Carboniferous Limestone:Found in the White Peak (Matlock and Buxton). It’s a pale grey stone. While very strong in compression, it is difficult to "square" into neat blocks, so it’s most commonly seen in random-rubble masonry or dry-stone walls.Triassic Red Sandstone: Dominant in South Derbyshire and Derby city. It’s softer and warmer in color. Because it weathers (erodes) more easily than gritstone, engineers often have to specify "stone consolidation" or replacement for historic restorations.Staffordshire Blue Bricks: These are the "iron" of the brick world. Fired at intense temperatures, they are chemically resistant and nearly waterproof. You’ll see them used for the "damp-proof course" (DPC) in Victorian terraces and for heavy-duty engineering in bridges and tunnels.Traditional Roofing and Tiles
Gritstone Flags: In the high Peaks, roofs aren't made of thin slate but heavy stone slabs. A single stone "tile" can weigh several kilograms, requiring oversized oak or pine roof trusses to prevent the roof from collapsing under its own weight.Welsh Blue Slate: After the arrival of the canals and Cromford & High Peak Railway, this became the "standard" for Derby’s Victorian expansions. It is thin, light, and allowed for much shallower roof pitches than stone.Red Clay Plain Tiles: Common in the southern, more "English" parts of the county. These are small, flat tiles usually laid in a double-lap pattern.Derbyshire "Brindled" Tiles: A mixture of red and blue/brown tones caused by uneven firing temperatures. These are often used in conservation areas to mimic the historic, "patchy" look of pre-industrial kilns.
Structural Engineer in Nottingham
Structural Engineering in Nottingham
As specialists in Nottingham’s unique structural landscape, we understand that building in this city requires more than just standard engineering—it requires a deep respect for what lies beneath and the materials that define the skyline.
Nottingham's Cave Network
Nottingham is famously built on a "swiss cheese" foundation of over 800 man-made caves carved into the Triassic sandstone.The Challenge: These caves were often designed for lighter medieval structures. Modern heavy loads can cause roof failure or "crown holes," especially if the sandstone becomes saturated, which can significantly reduce its strength.Our Expertise: We use resources like the British Geological Survey (BGS) "A Register of Nottingham Caves" to identify known hazards early.We are familiar with assessments and ground investigations to ensure new foundations protect these heritage assets while ensuring structural stability.
Nottingham's CLASP Construction
Nottinghamshire was a pioneer of the CLASP (Consortium of Local Authorities Special Programme) system, a light-gauge steel framework designed to "surf" over areas of mining subsidence.The Challenge: Many of these buildings, such as older schools and council offices, are reaching the end of their 60-year design life. They face unique issues, including complex fire risks due to open voids and the presence of asbestos in structural fire-proofing.Our Expertise: We are very familiar with the modernisation of CLASP structures, reinforcing the steel frames and managing the delicate balance of preserving these "spring-loaded" buildings while improving their thermal efficiency.
Nottingham's Materials
Nottingham’s built environment is defined by a distinct geological legacy, with materials ranging from the ubiquitous, honey-colored Bulwell Stone to the friable Sherwood Sandstone used in historic cave sites. Key local materials include the versatile Mansfield stone for intricate detailing and Skerry stone for traditional rubble walling, all critical for authentic structural repairs and new builds. A detailed guide to these materials can be found on the Nottinghamshire County Council website.Nottingham's Masonry and Brickwork
Having worked with old buildings around the nottingham area, you need to know a bit about the materials used before mass transit was a thingHistorically, Nottingham brickwork was characterized by the use of locally sourced materials, particularly clays from the Mercia Mudstone Group, which gave buildings a distinct red color. Before the industrial revolution, bricks were often hand-molded, dried, and fired in temporary, onsite kilns using coal.Key Historical Materials for Nottingham Brickwork:Brick Clay and Shale:
Mercia Mudstone Group: This is the most significant source, with extraction occurring in areas like Dorket Head, Sneinton, and the Mapperley Ridge line.Coal Measures: Mudstones and shales from the lower coal measures were frequently used for high-quality or engineering-grade bricks.Fireclays: Extracted as thin seams within the coal measures, these were used for specialized or buff-coloured bricks.Pit Waste: In later, industrial periods, colliery spoil (such as from Moorgreen or Wollaton pits) was used to produce common bricks.Lime Mortar:
Traditional, breathable lime mortar (non-hydraulic or natural hydraulic lime) was used for masonry, which allowed the soft, locally made bricks to "breathe" and prevented damp, unlike modern cement.
Stone (For Dressings and Foundations):Bulwell Stone: A dolomite from the Cadeby Formation that was widely used for walls and foundations.
Red Mansfield Stone: A dolomitic sandstone, highly prized for its durability in Victorian buildings.
Sneinton Sandstone: Used for earlier, medieval structures, including foundations.
Structural Engineer in Leicester
Structural Engineering In Leicester
Under ConstructionUnder Construction
Under ConstructionUnder Construction
Loft Conversion Structural Engineering
Our Approach
Good loft conversion engineering isn’t just about calculations — it’s about how the structure is actually built.We focus on buildable structural solutions that are easy to install within confined roof spaces and occupied homes. Wherever possible, we arrange and design lightweight materials to reduce loads on existing walls and foundations.
Loft Conversion Structural Engineering Services
A successful loft conversion starts with the right structural engineer. We provide specialist structural engineering services for loft conversions, helping homeowners unlock valuable living space safely, efficiently, and cost-effectively.From early feasibility advice through to detailed structural design, we ensure your loft conversion is structurally sound, Building Regulations compliant, and straightforward to build.Loft conversions place unique demands on an existing building. As experienced loft conversion structural engineers, we understand how to adapt existing homes while minimising disruption and unnecessary structural work.We work closely with homeowners, architects, and builders throughout the loft conversion process. If site conditions change or unexpected issues arise, we provide prompt, practical advice to keep the project moving.If you’re planning a loft conversion and want a structural engineer who understands both design and construction, we’d be happy to help.
Structural Engineers for Barn Conversions & Class Q Reports
Class Q and Structural Survey Report
We charge around £600, we try to visit in* 5 days, and have report with you after a further 10 days
We are specialist structural engineers for barn conversions, providing clear Class Q structural reports and practical designs that help projects get approved and built.
Why Choose Us
Our report is produced by Experienced barn conversion structural engineers who have a strong strong Class Q knowledge, with a back ground in old building restoration. Our reports are tailored to provide simple, yet practical and cost-effective advice.
Conservation Structural Engineering
Historic buildings tell irreplaceable stories. Our role as conservation structural engineers is to ensure those stories continue — safely, sensitively, and sustainably.
Conservation Structural Engineering Services
Structural assessments for listed buildings and heritage assetsRepair and strengthening of historic materialsDiagnosis of cracking, movement, settlement, and structural decayStructural input for conservation management plansSupport for planning applications, heritage statements and urgent works notices
Just some of the types of service we offer.....
Conservation Led Approach
Unlike conventional structural engineering, conservation structural engineering demands restraint, understanding, and precision. Our approach is guided by:
Minimum intervention and maximum retention of historic fabric
Thorough structural investigation and analysis
Evidence-based repair strategies using compatible materials
Full compliance with heritage, planning, and listed building consent requirements
Every recommendation is carefully considered, proportionate, and clearly justified.
If you’re looking for a structural engineer who understands that historic buildings are not just structures, but cultural assets, we’d be happy to help.
Residential Structural Engineer Services
Our Residential Structural Engineering Services
What do you need help with ?
This isn't everything, but hopefully this gives you an idea of the abilities of our team. If you like a little more information, do get in touch
Not sure, please call us.
Structural Calculations
Structural Calculations for Residential Properties
We try to charge around £300-£750 and have information within 5-7 working daysIf you want to open up, extend your property and take walls out, we can help, but like to see your plans so we can offer a quote. We try to offer out of hours visit to suit life.Send us your info in a way that suits you below, and give us a call
Advice
Advice for Residential Properties
We try to charge around £100-£150 for an out of hours visit, depending on location within around 3 working days of our first phone call.
If you need us to spend any time addressing your matter after, we can tailor our services to suit what you want to spend.If you have a matter where you don't know what to do, please use us as a sounding board - we're happy to listen and help plan a way forward that suits your situation.
If you would like further info on our terms and technical bits, see our terms and conditions.
Commercial Structural Engineering Services
What do you need help with ?
We do offer more than this, do get in touch and we will see what we can do
If you’re planning a project or need structural advice, feel free to get in touch. We’re happy to discuss your ideas, answer questions, and help you move forward with confidence.
Structural Engineering
Practical engineering. Clear advice, No overcomplication — just practical engineering that works.We provide reliable commercial structural engineering services for small to medium projects. Whether you’re planning a new build, a renovation, or need advice on an existing structure, we focus on solutions that are efficient, compliant, and easy to build.Our goal is simple: to make the structural side of your project clear, cost-effective, and stress-free.
Who are we ?
How we Work
We believe good engineering should be:Clear – straightforward explanations and transparent advice
Efficient – designs that respect your time and budget
Responsive – communication you can rely on
Compliant – meeting relevant codes and approval requirementsEvery project is different, and we take the time to understand what you actually need before proposing a solution.
We are an independent consultancy, that have staff that have helped the public and professionals deal with the structural challenges that buildings and aspirations throw at us.Our aim is to make take a professional service and make it more accessible to the general public, make it more understandable and remove the technical jargon and complexities so that people not in construction can make better decisions about their properties.We have £1m of insurance and employ chartered staff.
We are based at; Seven, Trowell Park Industrial Estate, Stapleford Rd, Trowell, Nottingham NG9 3PS
Our phone number is: 07879704220
A bit about us
Who we work with
General Public
Small business owners
Developers
Architects and designers
Builders and Shop Fit contractors
Structural Surveys
Structural Survey Services
We charge around £500, we try to visit in* 3 days, and have report with you after a further 5 days
Looking for a “Structural Engineer Near Me” contact our Structural Engineering Design Consultancy covering Derby, Nottingham, Ilkeston, Kimberley, Heanor. Codnor, Ripley, Hucknall, Keyworth, Castle Donnington, Melbourne and all other surrounding areas
A structural survey is a detailed inspection of a building’s structure carried out by a qualified professional. It focuses on key structural elements such as foundations, load-bearing walls, floors, roofs, beams, and columns. The survey checks for signs of cracks, movement, settlement, water damage, or structural defects that could affect the safety and stability of the property.
What Is a Structural Survey ?
Purpose of a Structural Survey
This an survey is to assess the condition and strength of a building. It helps identify existing or potential structural issues and provides clear advice on repairs, maintenance, or further investigation if needed. Structural surveys are commonly required when buying a property, planning building work, or dealing with visible damage.
Why is a Structural Survey Important
A professional structural survey helps protect your property investment and ensures the building is safe and structurally sound. Identifying problems early can help avoid costly repairs, reduce safety risks, and prevent issues with insurance or mortgage lenders. It gives homeowners, buyers, and developers confidence and peace of mind.
When Do You Need a Structural Survey?
You may need a structural survey if you are:
Buying or selling a property
Planning extensions, renovations, or structural alterations
Seeing cracks, uneven floors, or signs of movement
Dealing with storm, water, or subsidence damage
Asked to provide a report for lenders or mortgage providers
Local Structural Survey Specialists
We provide professional structural appraisal services for residential and commercial properties across Nottingham, Derby, Long Eaton, and Ilkeston. Our reports are clear, practical, and easy to understand, with honest advice you can rely on.
Terms and Conditions
We like to be super straight forward and clear in how we do business, hence see below details and terms of how we operate, if you have any questions please call.If you would like us to make a start please can you tell us the details of who is paying the bill over email.We might invoice you straight away but please don't take offense, there is no rush to pay, but we do ask for payment prior to releasing our information unless we have agreed otherwise
Terms & Conditions – Structural Inspections / SurveysOur job is to look at the property and report on any visible structural problems. We will explain what we think has caused them, how serious they may be, and whether further checks are needed. Where appropriate, we may give a basic outline of possible repair work. We may also mention nearby trees or vegetation if they could be affecting the building.Unless we clearly say otherwise, we do not check for asbestos, biohazards, or anything non-structural. We also do not inspect electrics, plumbing, heating, or mechanical systems. Any comments on damp are based only on what we can see at the time of the inspection.The outside of the building is inspected from ground level only. We use visual checks and optical aids, but without specialist access equipment we cannot see or comment on hidden or hard-to-reach areas.Inside the property, we only inspect areas that are easily accessible. We do not lift carpets or floorboards, remove walls or ceilings, or move heavy furniture. This means we cannot inspect parts of the structure that are hidden. If something is not mentioned, this does not mean it is free from defects, damage, insects, or decay.Drain checks are limited to lifting any visible inspection covers, where possible.Our report is not a mortgage valuation, Homebuyer’s Report, or refurbishment schedule. If something is not mentioned, this does not mean it meets current Building Regulations or British Standards. We do not contact the local authority as part of our service.We do not investigate mining or mineral extraction history, and we recommend separate searches where this may be relevant.We do not test for contamination, pollution, environmental issues, or invasive plants (such as Japanese knotweed), and we cannot comment on these matters.We take reasonable care and use professional skill when preparing our report, but we cannot guarantee that no future problems will arise or that existing issues will not get worse over time.Any references to “left” or “right” are based on standing outside the front of the property and facing it. Dark or unlit areas are inspected using a torch.Terms & Conditions – Structural ReportsAll reports are prepared by a qualified engineer and independently checked. The report focuses on structural damage or movement. We carry Professional Indemnity Insurance of up to £1,000,000.The report will describe any structural damage found and include photographs.The following are not included in our reports:Fixtures and fittingsProperty valuationsDamp, timber decay, rot, or infestation (we will recommend a specialist if needed)Drainage surveysElectrical inspectionsGas or heating inspectionsContaminated land, asbestos, or Japanese knotweedReports are usually completed within timescales quoted, depending on workload.The full report (PDF) will be sent once payment has been received. Printed copies can be provided if requested.Owners or their representatives may be present during the inspection, and we may give a verbal summary on the day. The written report will only be shared with the client or anyone the client authorises.Please note that if damage has been deliberately hidden, this is outside our control and is not covered by our insurance.
Shop Fit Structural Engineering
Structural assessment of existing buildings for shop fit-outsStructural design for retail, commercial, and hospitality fit-outsLoad assessments for new equipment, shelving, signage, and mezzaninesDesign of structural alterations, including wall removals and openingsEngineering design for shopfronts, facades, and signage supports
Shop Fit Structural Engineering
Expert Structural Engineering for Shop Fit-Outs
We provide fast, compliant, and cost-effective structural engineering consultancy for retail and commercial shop fit-outs. From structural assessments and load calculations to detailed fit-out design and construction drawings, we ensure your project meets building codes, landlord requirements, and approval timelines. Our engineers work closely with architects, contractors, and shopfitters to deliver safe, efficient, and buildable fit-out solutions—minimising delays and maximising space performance.
New Build Structural Engineering Services
Structural system selection (steel, concrete, timber, hybrid structures)Detailed structural design for offices, industrial, retail, and mixed-use buildingsFoundation and ground-bearing slab designLateral stability and wind load analysisValue engineering to optimise construction cost and buildability
Structural Engineering for New Commercial Buildings
We deliver innovative, compliant, and cost-effective structural engineering consultancy for new commercial building design. From concept and feasibility through detailed design and construction support, our engineers create efficient structural systems that meet building codes, sustainability targets, and programme requirements. Working closely with architects, developers, and contractors, we provide buildable, value-engineered solutions that reduce risk, control costs, and support long-term asset performance.
Structural Repairs Structural Engineering
Structural engineering consultancy for structural repairs and remediationBuilding condition assessments and structural inspectionsStructural defect investigations and failure analysisConcrete repair and remediation designSteel corrosion assessment and repair designMasonry, façade, and balcony structural repair designStructural crack assessment and repair specificationDesign of strengthening and structural upgrade solutionsAsset life extension and durability improvement strategiesStructural advice for insurance claims and defect rectification
Structural Engineering for Building Repairs & Remediation
We provide expert structural engineering consultancy for structural repairs, delivering practical, compliant, and cost-effective repair solutions for commercial and residential buildings. From condition assessments and defect investigations to repair design, specifications, and construction support, our engineers address structural damage, deterioration, and compliance issues with confidence. We work closely with owners, asset managers, and contractors to ensure safe, durable, and buildable repair outcomes that extend the life of your structure and reduce long-term risk.
Retaining Wall Structural Engineering
Structural engineering consultancy for retaining wall designRetaining wall inspections, condition surveys, and assessmentsDesign of reinforced concrete, masonry, timber, and gravity retaining wallsRetaining wall stability analysis
Structural assessment of existing and failing retaining wallsCoordination with geotechnical engineers and review of soil reports
Design for surcharge loads, drainage, and groundwater conditionsRemedial and strengthening design for damaged retaining walls
Retaining Wall Design & Structural Engineering Services
We provide specialist structural engineering consultancy for retaining wall design and assessment, delivering safe, compliant, and cost-effective solutions for residential, commercial, and infrastructure projects. From site inspections and condition surveys to geotechnical coordination, detailed design, and construction documentation, our engineers ensure retaining walls perform under soil, surcharge, and drainage loads. We work closely with owners, developers, and contractors to deliver durable, buildable retaining wall solutions that meet regulatory and site-specific requirements.
Structural Alterations Structural Engineerings
Structural assessments and feasibility studies for alterations and refurbishmentsDesign of structural modifications, including wall removals, openings, and extensionsLoad analysis and structural calculations for altered structuresPreparation of detailed structural drawings and specifications for alterationsRetrofitting and strengthening of existing structural elementsConstruction phase support and site inspections for altered structuresValue engineering to optimise cost, buildability, and programme
Structural Engineering for Commercial Building Alterations
We provide specialist structural engineering consultancy for commercial building alterations, delivering safe, compliant, and buildable solutions for refurbishments, extensions, and change-of-use projects. From structural assessments and feasibility studies to detailed alteration design and construction documentation, our engineers manage load paths, stability, and compliance with confidence. Working closely with architects, developers, and contractors, we help minimise disruption, control risk, and ensure commercial structural alterations are delivered efficiently and to code.