Church Conversion Structural Engineer Report

I am converting a Grade II* church, complete with an existing balcony, into a residential space featuring five bedrooms and three bathrooms. Because this falls under a major renovation and extension, I need a structural engineer’s report, the local building-control officer, and future insurance requirements.

Scope of the inspection
• Assess the current balcony structure and advise whether it can safely carry the new bedroom and bathroom loads or if reinforcement is required.
• Identify any points where new openings, stair cores, or service runs may compromise structural integrity and propose compliant solutions.
• Provide clear guidance on materials, member sizes, and connection details so contractors can price and build accurately.
• Highlight any implications for fire resistance, acoustic separation, or thermal upgrades that follow from your structural recommendations.

Deliverables
1. A site visit with photographic record.
2. Calculations, sketches, and marked-up drawings (PDF + original files in ETABS, Tekla, or preferred package).
3. A stamped structural report ready for submission to building control, including a summary section worded for non-technical stakeholders.
4. Optional follow-up call to clarify points with my architect and contractor once the report is issued.

Acceptance criteria
• Report references relevant UK Building Regulations standards.
• All structural elements shown with adequate factors of safety and serviceability limits.
• Recommendations are practical and cost-conscious for a heritage structure.

The drawings will also need to be submitted to the local authority to discharge planning conditions.