Frequently Asked Questions for structural engineers

What does a structural engineer do?
​Structural engineers perform a range of services to support you in the assessment or design of your residential or commercial building project. Whilst an Architect focuses mainly on the design, appearance and layout of a property; a structural engineer performs design checks, using various structural products and materials, to ensure that the proposed works are structurally safe. All our work is carried out in accordance with relevant Building Regulations and British Standard Codes of Practice. We will happily provide any necessary calculations or drawings.
What is a structural survey?
Structural surveys, also known as structural inspections, can be undertaken for a number of reasons including the assessment of structural defects and the general condition of a building or structure. A structural consultant could be looking at the feasibility of proposed alterations and extensions or perhaps undertaking an inspection for insurance purposes following a fire, flood or building collapse. Structural engineers can also advise on works required to comply with the requirement of the Building Regulations.
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Structural inspections and surveys are normally limited to structural elements only i.e. we will not comment on electrics, plumbing, fixtures and fittings, or finishes. Unfortunately, East London Structural Engineers cannot provide you with Structural Home Surveys for pre-purchasing a property.
Do I need a structural engineer for my home project?
The general rule is if you are planning to make internal alterations, such as knocking down a wall or chimney breast, or adding an extension to your property you will need to hire a structural engineer.

If you need to modify the structure of a building in any shape or form whatsoever, then you will require a structural engineer. Attempting to do so, without proper structural calculations, could prove to be risky, even dangerous. This is especially true if you are making alterations to load-bearing walls or removing chimney breasts – because accurate beam calculations must be considered so that works can be carried out safely. The same philosophy applies to completing structural elements like floors, roofs or foundations. Our role is to ensure that the structure and foundation of a building is strong and robust enough to support any forces applied to it.
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Whenever a new build is being planned, you’ll need to hire the services of a structural engineer.
How much does it cost to involve a structural engineer?
​The cost of providing structural engineering services vary dependent upon the complexity of the project and how much time we need to spend preparing drawings, calculations, reports and visiting the property. Fee levels are calculated on a time basis. In most cases, we can advise you the full cost of our structural engineering services in advance.
How long will it take to get my report, drawings or calculations?
​The time taken will be dependent on our existing work commitments. As a guide, we would normally aim to issue structural reports within 5 working days following our inspection and, for home and simple commercial projects, we would normally aim to issue drawings and calculations within 10-15 days following your instruction and receipt of your architectural drawings.
Will your design work be covered by insurance?
​Yes. As long as the works are carried out in accordance with our drawings and specifications, all of our design work is covered by our Professional Indemnity Insurance. Please note that if your builder doesn’t carry out the work in accordance with our drawings, we will not be responsible.
​Do you check your designs are safe and comply with health and safety rules?
​Yes. All of our engineers take health and safety responsibilities very seriously. 
What happens once the structural calculations have been completed?
​Simple – you and your architect or builder will present the structural calculations to the designated Building Control Authorities for approval.
Will you carry out a site visit for my project?
​Yes, unless notified otherwise. It is good practice to carry out a site inspection and collect as much information as possible about the project to provide the best possible design solution. It also helps avoid any unknowns that could lead to costly amendments further down the line.
How long does the site visit take?
​This depends on many factors such as the type and size of the project as well as the extent of issues we need to assess. For example, a 3-4 bedroom house may take about 1 hour.
Where are you based?
​Dagenham, East London
Which areas do you cover?
We generally cover the surrounding areas within a 10-mile radius for residential projects, including: Barking and Dagenham, Hackney, Havering, Newham, Redbridge, Tower Hamlets and Waltham Forest. We also travel further afield for larger projects and commercial construction projects.
Will you answer building control queries?
​Yes, we answer building control queries as part of our fee and we have 100% building regulations approval.
Are you qualified Structural Engineers?
Yes, we are qualified structural engineers with UK experience.
Are you insured?
​Yes, we carry professional indemnity insurance 
Do you provide architectural design services?
​No, we do not provide architectural design services, but we are happy to recommend an architectural firm suitable for your project, if required.
Do I need a structural engineer for my home project?
​If your construction project involves altering the existing structure, adding significant loads or building a new structure, then you will need a structural engineer. If you are unsure whether the alterations are structural (such as whether a wall is load bearing or if removing a chimney has structural implications) then you will also need advice from a structural engineer.
Why do I need structural calculations for my project?
These calculations and drawings will need to be produced by a qualified structural engineer in order to comply with building regulations and other statutory regulations. Not all projects require calculations, but it is recommended that you speak to a structural engineering consultant to seek advice.
When would I need a Structural engineer?
​You would normally hire a structural engineer (as well as an architect) at building control design stage, which is well ahead of construction. In the case of new builds or basement conversions, a structural engineer might be required to carry out a feasibility study before submitting a planning application. An architect can also advise their client when a structural engineer is required.
Do you produce safe designs, accurate drawings and calculations?
Yes, each design is tailor made to meet your project’s requirements. Our drawings and structural calculations are based upon information gathered following a site inspection. We take into account building regulations and Construction, Design and Management Regulations.
What are the next steps after I employ a structural engineer?
A site inspection will take place first. We will then speak with you and your architect to finalise the project brief and then supply you with a full design package. Once this is signed off construction can begin. Our structural engineers will provide support through to project completion. 
Do I also need an Architect?
If you are planning an extension, loft conversion, full internal remodelling or a new build then you will need to hire an architect. If your project is limited to removal of one or a few walls within your property, then you may only need a structural engineer.
Do I need Planning permission?
​We would recommend you seek the advice of your local council.
Who submits the building control application?
​Usually this is done by the architect.
When can building work start?
You can start building as soon as you have the complete design package, planning permission, party wall agreement (if applicable), freeholder consent (if applicable), finance, building control. Please check with your local authority as to whether other requirements are needed.
I want to knock down a wall in my house and I am not sure if it is load bearing
​We recommend that you instruct a structural engineer before doing any work. The structural consultant can guide you through the process and make necessary assessment in finding out whether it is a load bearing wall.
I want to knock a hole in the wall that separates the dining room and kitchen to create an open plan kitchen/ dining area. What do I need to do?
A structural engineer can advise whether the wall is load bearing and what will be required to ensure safe removal of the wall.
What is party wall agreement and do I need one?
Your building works may fall under the regulations of the Party Wall Act 1996. If you are building a wall up to or astride the boundary with a neighbouring property, undertaking work to an existing wall or excavating near a neighbouring building, we would recommend that you speak to a party wall surveyor.
When should we start talking to builders?
Our advice is to wait until planning permission is achieved and then develop the drawings in more detail in terms of construction and specification. Once these construction drawings are finalised, you are then in a better position to get accurate quotes from a builder.
When is the best time to send drawings to builders for costing?
​The best time would be once the final drawings are produced for building regulations and construction purposes. By waiting until this stage, the builders can quote by referring to the information from the drawings and provide you with an accurate cost for the works. The builder will also be in a better position to determine how long the build will take (start and finish dates) and offer contract and payment terms based on the information to hand, once they have a clear idea of what the project entails.
Can we make changes to the drawings whilst construction is in progress?
​If you require any amendments to the drawings whilst construction is in progress, please contact us, as this could impact the structural integrity of the building. This may incur additional fees to resolve the changes.
If you have any other questions, please feel free to give us a call our use our contact form.