Targeted Foundation Repair to Support Property Sale
A mid-terrace residential property in Dublin 6 presented with signs of structural movement affecting both external walls and internal areas.
The client required a structural solution to address movement and support the property being returned to the market
PKT Chartered Engineers were appointed to assess the condition and develop a practical, cost-effective stabilisation strategy to facilitate the property being returned to the market.
The Issue
- Cracking observed to front and rear walls
- Internal movement affecting floors and finishes
- Evidence of ongoing movement prior to intervention
These issues raised concerns for prospective purchasers and required a clear engineering approach to address.
Engineering Approach
Following assessment, a number of potential repair options were considered.
A targeted foundation stabilisation scheme was developed in line with the client’s budget and programme requirements.
This included:
- This project allowed localised stitch piling to front and rear foundations to reduce more costly and disruptive internal works
- Structural crack management and repair strategy
- Crack repairs and stabilisation of floors
- Implementation of a defined monitoring period following works
This approach allowed the key areas of movement to be addressed without the need for more extensive foundation reconstruction and internal works.
Monitoring & Verification
Following completion of the stabilisation works:
- Crack monitoring was carried out over a period of approximately nine months
- Monitoring indicated no significant ongoing movement during this period
This provided confidence in the performance of the implemented solution at the time.
Outcome
- The property was stabilised in line with the agreed scope of works
- A Certificate of Compliance relating to the underpinning works was issued
- The property was successfully returned to the market and subsequently sold
Practical Engineering Solutions
This project demonstrates the importance of:
- Developing proportionate solutions aligned with client objectives
- Balancing technical requirements with cost and programme constraints
- Using monitoring data to inform and validate engineering decisions
Project details have been generalised to protect client confidentiality.
Concerned About Cracking or Movement?
If you are preparing a property for sale or have concerns about structural movement:
Early engineering advice can:
- Clarify the extent of the issue
- Identify appropriate repair options
- Support confidence for purchasers
