Start with what is available
An estate agent floor plan, old permit documents, photos or a previous owner's records may help. Record the construction year and known renovations. This provides a starting point, but does not prove how the structure was actually built.
Archive research and surveys
Municipalities and archives have different access procedures. Structural drawings may be stored separately. Missing documents or discrepancies with the building may require a survey or targeted inspection. Agree who will investigate and the costs beforehand.
Record uncertainties
A report should clearly identify its information and assumptions. Unverifiable assumptions may require detailed design to be paused, rather than creating false certainty. Agree what information is needed before final delivery and before construction.
Practical checklist
- Ask about structural archives too
- Identify previous wall openings
- Take overview photos
- Discuss investigations before construction
Do not treat a neighbour's drawing as an exact description of your own house.
Preparing your own project
Would you like this assessed for your home? See our information about renovation. It explains which information is relevant to that brief. The project check helps you prepare your enquiry.
Unsure about a term? The structural glossary provides plain-language explanations and technical context. To understand how the documents are organised, explore our fictional example project .
Editorial guidance • updated 2 October 2026. General information, not a project-specific assessment.