Burland scale
The Burland Scale is used to describe or measure the damage (or risk of damage) to properties as a result of changes such as subsidence. It may be used for example to assess the risk of damage as part of a basement impact assessment.
It categorises the damage to properties as:
- Visual appearance or aesthetics.
- Serviceability and function.
- Stability.
Where:
- Categories 0, 1, and 2 refer to (i) aesthetic damage.
- Category 3 and 4 relate to (ii) serviceability and function.
- Category 5 relates to (iii) stability.
| Category of damage | Description of typical damage | Approximate crack width (mm) | Limiting tensile strain εlim (%) |
| 0 Negligible | Hairline cracks of less than about 0.1 mm are classed as negligible | <0.1 | 0.0-0.05 |
| 1 Very slight | Fine cracks that can easily be treated during normal decoration. Perhaps isolated slight fracture in building. Cracks in external brickwork visible on inspection | <1 | 0.05-0.075 |
| 2 Slight | Cracks easily filled. Redecoration probably required. Several slight fractures showing inside of building. Cracks are visible externally and some repointing may be required externally to ensure weathertightness. Doors and windows may stick slightly. | <5 | 0.075-0.15 |
| 3 Moderate | The cracks require some opening up and can be patched by a mason. Recurrent cracks can be masked by suitable lining. Repointing of external brickwork and possibly a small amount of brickwork to be replaced. Doors and windows sticking. Service pipes may fracture. Weathertightness often impaired. | 5-15 or a number of cracks > 3 | 0.15-0.3 |
| 4 Severe | Extensive repair work involving breaking-out and replacing sections of walls, especially over doors and windows. Windows and frames distorted, floor sloping noticeably. Walls leaning or bulging noticeably, some loss of bearing in beams. Service pipes disrupted. | 15-25 but also depends on number of cracks | >0.3 |
| 5 Very severe | This requires a major repair involving partial or complete rebuilding. Beams lose bearings, walls lean badly and require shoring. Windows broken with distortion, Danger of instability. | Usually > 25 but depends on number of cracks |
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki:
Featured articles and news
Architects, architecture, buildings, and inspiration in film
The close ties between makers and the movies, with our long list of suggested viewing.
SELECT three-point plan for action issued to MSPs
Call for Scottish regulation, green skills and recognition of electrotechnical industry as part of a manifesto for Scottish Parliamentary elections.
UCEM becomes the University of the Built Environment
Major milestone in its 106-year history, follows recent merger with London School of Architecture (LSE).
Professional practical experience for Architects in training
The long process to transform the nature of education and professional practical experience in the Architecture profession following recent reports.
A people-first approach to retrofit
Moving away from the destructive paradigm of fabric-first.
International Electrician Day, 10 June 2025
Celebrating the role of electrical engineers from André-Marie Amperè, today and for the future.
New guide for clients launched at Houses of Parliament
'There has never been a more important time for clients to step up and ...ask the right questions'
The impact of recycled slate tiles
Innovation across the decades.
EPC changes for existing buildings
Changes and their context as the new RdSAP methodology comes into use from 15 June.
Skills England publishes Sector skills needs assessments
Priority areas relating to the built environment highlighted and described in brief.
BSRIA HVAC Market Watch - May 2025 Edition
Heat Pump Market Outlook: Policy, Performance & Refrigerant Trends for 2025–2028.
Committing to EDI in construction with CIOB
Built Environment professional bodies deepen commitment to EDI with two new signatories: CIAT and CICES.
Government Grenfell progress report at a glance
Line by line recomendation overview, with links to more details.
An engaging and lively review of his professional life.
Sustainable heating for listed buildings
A problem that needs to be approached intelligently.
50th Golden anniversary ECA Edmundson apprentice award
Deadline for entries has been extended to Friday 27 June, so don't miss out!
CIAT at the London Festival of Architecture
Designing for Everyone: Breaking Barriers in Inclusive Architecture.
Mixed reactions to apprenticeship and skills reform 2025
A 'welcome shift' for some and a 'backwards step' for others.