October 2021

The answer is ‘Yes’.

If you do not provide structural drawings to your potential contractors then your estimates are pure assumption on one of the most important aspects of a Remodel or New Build!

Golden rule – ‘Never Assume”

I have had so many clients in 2021 ask whether they need to go to the expense of structural drawings prior to us providing a quote.

The structural engineer is a licensed professional whom property owners must consult on structural implications of the addition of living space or removal of load-bearing walls, all of which will need to be properly permitted and constructed by a licensed professional.

They provide drawings for your contractor to tell them what extents they must go too to build your design, including important materials that can attract quite a cost – such as Steel beams and if new walls are required, which will then require new foundations to be laid. Older homes or complicated structures can require a structural engineer in order to ensure the site meets the up-to-date standards of code.

See more on this subject and the difference between an Architect and Structural Engineer with an article from Homebuilding.co.uk