Foundation cracks - best type of survey?

Jonesya

I've seen a house which on first viewing looked reasonable but on the second viewing I noticed a stair-step type crack in the foundation, below the DPC barrier, a roughly 5mm wide gap following the mortar lines through 2 courses of brickwork, near the corner of the wall.

There wasn't any evidence of cracking above the DPC line or internally, but the walls are dry-lined rather than wet plastered so I don't know if this affects the visibility of cracks internally?

From what I read on the net it appears diagnosing the cause of cracking is a tricky and often drawn out process. The vendor wasn't aware of the cracks so hasn't provided any information on how long they've been there or whether they've grown.

Having identified cracking, would a typical a structural survey give a definite conclusion on the cause of the cracking and risk of future movement, enough certainty to proceed with a purchase?

Having found the cracking during the viewing I'm reluctant to pay out for a survey that simply concludes further investigation is required - are there other surveys/investigations that would be more suitable?

Thanks.

Owain_Moneysaver

Structural engineer's report carried out by a Member if the Institute of Structural Engineers (MIStructE).