Do we need wall ties?

[brida]

What are the symptoms of failing wall ties?  We have cracks in the ceiling (1930's house) - some of them are quite wide.  Is there a way of telling if they are just bog standard cracks or a symptom of something more sinister (and costly!)

[X111]

Wall ties are small pieces of metal which should be in cavity walls holding both skins together. Presumably you are concerned about tie rods, which go from one external side of the house to the other with large circular or S plates each end to hold the walls together. The fact is that it is impossible to technically advise you through AnswerBank. The cause of the commencement of collapse of your house must be investigated (as soon as ever possible if the cracks have recently suddenly appeared) by a Chartered Building Surveyor (not a builder) personally on site. There is no other way.