Structural Engineering Report_ House Relocation

C/- Graeme Jones                                                                                  Page 8 of 9
Structural Assessment – 45 Maple St Cooroy House Relocation
24 February 2020                                                                           Ref. No. 2020.0128




Figure 13, Garage, Sub Floor Framing


CONCLUSION

The inspection undertaken was visual in nature and has allowed assessment of visible structure only. It
is possible that structural defects exist that have not been identified in this report, however the visible
original structure appears to have been constructed using quality timber and workmanship resulting in a
dwelling that has weathered well.
There were no visible structural concerns that would preclude a continued use of the building. The
seemingly sound condition of the hardwood framing of the house would mean that the house can be
relocated to a new site provided the correct preparation was undertaken by a qualified and experienced
house removal contractor. A detailed inspection of roofing and framing should be undertaken when the
house is relocated to the alternate site. It is possible that internal damage may be identified once
existing roof sheets and cladding are removed during relocation exercises. A sufficient contingency
should be allowed in the budget for potential timber repair works.
Consideration should be given to the viability of the “non-original” veranda and laundry extension in the
relocated structure, as these do not appear to reflect a similar high standard of construction as is
evident in the original structure.
The separate garage structure is in poor condition and if it is to be relocated, it would need significant
strengthening/replacement of the floor framing and rectification of the chamferboard cladding and
flooring. The internal structure and roofing would also require inspection to determine if these elements
also require rectification.


GENERAL DWELLING RELOCATION RECOMMENDATIONS
The following summarises some general house relocation notes and recommendations based on
previous house relocation experience:
•   The dwelling is approximately 13m wide. A single shift is likely not possible and the house may be
    split down the middle (at least). This ultimately depends on where the house is going and the widths
    of streets and corners on the route. The removalist can confirm once proposed site is identified.
•   If the existing roof is too high to transport, the house removalist will remove existing roof sheeting
    and lower the roof (mark and disassemble rafters flat). The gable end will also be lowered flat. Any
    rectification of the roof structure can also be carried out at this stage.
•   It is possible to keep the original (heritage) elements of the dwelling but demolish the non-original
    extensions/renovations (rear veranda and laundry). The house removalist should be able to do this
    as part of their scope.