Safe Access & Structural Assessment of a Fire Damaged Building in South Yorkshire

Our team carried out a detailed structural inspection of a severely fire‑damaged historic building in South Yorkshire - a property that had suffered multiple arson attacks and extensive roof collapse.

With internal access unsafe due to falling‑debris risk, our engineers adopted a controlled, safety‑led approach to gather the information needed for a structural appraisal. Using a drone, we were able to complete a close‑range survey of the collapsed roof areas, unrestrained gable walls and exposed internal structures without placing personnel at risk.

From this vantage point, we identified:

• Circa 75% collapse of the pitched timber roof, with remaining elements in a severely weakened state
• Unrestrained gable walls exposed to wind loading following roof failure
• Internal walls and chimney stacks were left unsupported, requiring careful staged demolition or propping
• Fire‑damaged second‑floor joists and debris loads prevented safe internal entry
• Areas where temporary works were essential before any further inspection or redevelopment could proceed

This inspection demonstrates the value of combining structural expertise with modern survey technology, enabling us to assess dangerous structures safely, accurately and efficiently.

Our recommendations supported the client in planning controlled debris removal, temporary works and the next steps toward making the building safe for refurbishment.

Drone imagery captured during the inspection was provided to show the extent of damage and the photos also show the challenges of surveying a building in this condition.

At MCA, safety is always the starting point and with the right tools and experience, even the most compromised structures can be assessed with confidence.

View showing the extent of damage to the east half of the roof structure with unrestrained internal walls.


Complete collapse of the timber roof structure to the rear of the south gable wall leaving an unrestrained gable peak.

View showing the extent of damage to the central area of the roof structure. Internal walls unrestrained at head level.

View of the central section of the building above the main stairwell. Complete collapse of roof structure and majority of the 2nd floor in this area.

East End – Circa 75% roof collapsed with substantial damage to the remainder.