RAAC Structural Assessment
Determine the condition of RAAC panels and plan an appropriate solution with a structural assessment by a team of highly experienced engineers.
We take a nuanced approach to RAAC structural assessments
A common misconception is that RAAC has a 30-year lifespan. This has been promoted by the media and has led to an increased worry about RAAC. Our assessments work out the facts, analyse the details and determine the most appropriate and best value-for-money approach to managing any risks.
Visual inspection
We thoroughly examine RAAC panels to identify any visible signs of deterioration, such as cracking, spalling, or sagging
Structural analysis
We evaluate the structural integrity of the RAAC elements, checking for any forms of structural compromise.
Condition reporting
We compile our findings from into a detailed report including an evaluation of RAAC condition, level of risk present, practical next steps and the evidence that supports our conclusions.
Remediation recommendations
Where remediation is necessary, we conduct an options appraisal that considers engineering risk, site conditions and stakeholder priorities, to make informed and cost-effective recommendations.
Professional affiliations and key relationships
Why choose RCS for your structural assessment?
Our experience and expertise set us apart. We are a proud member of the IStructE RAAC working group and partner with some of the most experienced RAAC structural engineers in the country — many of whom contribute to formal government guidance.
Organisations that choose RCS for a RAAC structural assessment benefit from:
- Unrivalled practical experience: We’ve assessed the condition of over 200 RAAC-affected buildings, helping organisations understand the risk and plan remediation work.
- Industry-leading advice: Our team contributes to the formal guidance on managing RAAC and was appointed to review the RAAC status of the Institution of Structural Engineers headquarters in London.
- End-to-end support: Based on the assessment's findings, we can manage and deliver various cost-efficient remediation solutions that often negate the need for RAAC removal and replacement.
Choosing the best solution to mitigate risk
Removing RAAC is rarely the best solution. We use a structured methodology for RAAC remediation options appraisal that’s based on the latest research and practical experience to determine the most appropriate and best-value-for-money option, on a case-by-case basis.
The benefits of our alternative approach are compelling:
- Reduced costs. Our remediation solutions mitigate the risks of RAAC in the most cost-effective manner possible.
- Faster delivery. We can implement our remediation strategies quickly and efficiently without disrupting critical operations.
- Climate friendly. Our solutions have a much smaller carbon footprint compared to replacement or removal, helping you hit net zero targets.
Our approach is grounded in science
We work closely with the Loughborough University group leading research on RAAC in the UK and other specialist partners, to translate the latest RAAC theory and research into practical applications. This includes Professor Chris Goodier, who contributed to the formal guidance on RAAC and currently advises the UK Government.
Discover our success with RAAC structural assessments
We’ve delivered structural assessments to hundreds of RAAC-affected buildings across the country. Learn how our assessments help public and private sector clients mitigate risk and plan a way forward that is practical and highly cost effective.
We deliver the industry’s only fully managed end-to-end RAAC solution
We help organisations at every stage of their RAAC journey. Select where you are below to find out more.
Determine the condition of RAAC panels and plan an appropriate solution with a structural assessment by a team of highly experienced engineers.
Find the best-fit and best value-for-money RAAC remediation option for your organisation using a research-backed appraisal methodology.
RAAC Assessment FAQs
This is heavily dependent on the size of the building, the access required in order to undertake the inspection and the quantity of panels. We typically aim to inspect at least 10% of the panels to develop the engineering data required to make a risk assessment. Typically on site work is 1-2 days with data and calculations and final reporting following a week later.
The engineer leading the assessment will want to establish the bearing length ( how far the end of the panel sits on top of a wall or steel). There are several methods for determining this, which may include making a small hole. Occasionally, we may drill a small hole in a panel to determine if the metal inside is present over the bearing. This work is conducted under the supervision of our lead engineer.
The engineers follow the IStructE guidance to determine the risk classification. This includes looking for signs of water leaks (both present and past), cracking, inadequate bearing lengths, deflections, corrosion and signs of spalling (bits falling off).
RCS will work with you to understand if a risk of asbestos is possible and can support you in deciding how best to manage it.
It is very helpful to have someone that knows the history of the buildings and has keys to all areas. We will ask for any original construction drawings, asbestos reports, floorplans and any existing survey reports. We will work with you in advance to understand if any support with access is required. Depending on the use of the building we may need to restrict access when the assessment is underway.
This will be dependent on the scale of the buildings but typically reports are issued within two weeks. If needed, a verbal dynamic risk assessment will be given if the lead engineer believes an urgent safety issue exists. We will work with you to present emergency options and support you in managing the risk.
If needed, a verbal dynamic risk assessment will be given if the lead engineer believes an urgent safety issue exists. We will work with you to present emergency options and support you in managing the risk.
The RCS cost-saving promise
Our specialist testing, research and methods have enabled us to save several organisations millions on the cost of their RAAC remediation. We would be delighted to introduce you to our clients and share with you their experiences of working with RCS.
Angus Drummond - Partner