You should hire a structural engineer whenever you are planning or carrying out a renovation project that will cause significant changes to a building. A structural engineer will help you plan safe renovations that won’t damage the building’s structure.
If you want help with designing a project and getting planning permission - architectural services will be a better fit.
A structural engineer can cost between £275 and £375 for a basic report, according to job-prices.co.uk. However, if you are planning a bigger project, you can expect to pay between £1,000 and £1,300.
You will need a structural engineer for your extension, if the project affects parts of your home’s structure - such as the roof or walls.
It is always best to ask a structural engineer to make a report before you begin your project. They will advise you on whether the construction will affect the building structure, and show you how to complete your project without any issues.
You will need a structural engineer to remove a wall - if it is load-bearing. This is because you will need to properly support the building when you remove the wall, and correctly replace it with a beam.
If the wall is not load-bearing, you should be able to remove it without help, but it is useful to get a structural engineer’s report first if you are unsure.
You can find a structural engineer on Yell.com, where you can also read customer reviews, and see the services offered by each business in your area.
Before you meet with an engineer, it is best to decide what type of project you need help with, and when you would like it to be completed.
Before you employ an engineer, you should always check they are certified and insured, and ask about their experience.
You should also ask how long your project will take, how much it will cost, and what licences you may need. There may be other questions, depending on your situation.
Your structural engineer will use visual observation. They will visit and inspect all the visible parts of your house’s structure. This includes the foundations, loft area, and any structural supports, such as beams.
They will check for clear signs of structural problems, like cracking foundations or sagging ceilings, and will then make a report based on what they find.
Generally, a structural engineer report will last for 6 months, but this can vary.
A building’s condition can easily change, so your engineer can only make recommendations based on the structure’s current state.
Your report will state how long it is valid, so check if you are unsure.
These materials are linked, written and provided for general information purposes only. They are not intended and should not be used as a substitute for taking independent advice. Yell accepts no liability in relation to any arrangement made between you and any of the Trade Associations, professional bodies and/or Expert Contributors linked from this site.