IKT Consulting Engineers

08/05/2026

Did you know structural engineers design for both dead loads and live loads?

Dead loads are the permanent forces a building must always support, such as walls, floors, roofs, and beams. Live loads are temporary or changing forces, including people, furniture, vehicles, and stored materials.

Understanding the difference is critical because every structure must safely withstand both constant weight and changing pressures throughout its lifespan.

At IKT Consulting, our engineers carefully calculate these loads to ensure buildings remain safe, compliant, and built to perform under real-world conditions.

23/04/2026

Are your fire escape stairs compliant with UK regulations?

Fire escape staircases are critical for safe evacuation but strict rules govern everything from materials and fire resistance to width, lighting, and access.

For example, staircases must use fire-resistant construction, include proper handrails, and be designed to allow safe, efficient evacuation in an emergency.

Failing to meet these standards can put lives at risk and lead to serious compliance issues for building owners.

At IKT Consulting, we help ensure your structures meet the latest safety regulations and perform when it matters most.

Learn what you need to know in this article.

Commercial businesses are required by law to have a whole host of fire safety processes and procedures in place.

22/04/2026

Cracks, movement, or signs of structural damage can be worrying but not all issues are immediately visible.

Our structural inspections and reports assess everything from foundations to roof structures, identifying risks early and providing clear, actionable recommendations. Whether for a property purchase, insurance, or peace of mind, we help you make informed decisions with confidence.

https://www.iktconsulting.co.uk/services/commercial/periodic-structural-inspections/

17/04/2026

Did you know solar panels can significantly increase the load on your roof?

While each panel may seem lightweight, when combined with mounting systems, wind uplift forces, and snow loads, the total structural demand can be much higher than expected.

Without proper assessment, this added weight can lead to deflection, cracks, or even long-term structural issues.

Thinking about installing solar panels? Make sure your roof is structurally assessed first.

https://www.iktconsulting.co.uk/services/commercial/roof-surveys-for-solar-panels/

13/04/2026

External staircases are more than access points, they’re critical safety features.

Over time, exposure to weather can cause corrosion, loose fixings, and structural weakening. Our inspections identify these risks early, ensuring your staircases remain safe, compliant, and reliable when it matters most.

https://www.iktconsulting.co.uk/services/commercial/external-staircase-inspections/

08/04/2026

Do you understand what the Building Safety Act means for your property or project?

Introduced after the Grenfell Tower fire, this legislation has transformed how building safety is managed across the UK; especially for high-rise residential buildings.

From stronger accountability for developers to better protection for homeowners and stricter regulations across construction, the Act is reshaping the industry.

At IKT Consulting, we help clients navigate these changes with expert structural advice, ensuring projects remain safe, compliant, and future-proof.

Learn what the Building Safety Act means for you in this article.

Who pays for remediation under the Building Safety Act? Learn developer and leaseholder responsibilities and key compliance rules.

01/04/2026

For commercial buildings, solar panel installations demand precise structural analysis.

Our engineers provide detailed load assessments, material checks, and structural calculations to confirm your roof can safely support panels and mounting systems.

This ensures compliance with regulations while protecting your investment long-term.

https://www.iktconsulting.co.uk/services/commercial/roof-surveys-for-solar-panels/