Structural Engineers.....

What Does a Structural Engineer Do & Do I Need One? Lots of our clients ask us questions about Structural Engineers, the information below should help you understand why sometimes we need to use an engineer when preparing your building regulation plans.

What is a Structural Engineer? A Structural Engineer is a professional who has the sufficient credentials to give advice on structural issues and provide the necessary calculations to ensure buildings are safely built (ie. so they do not sink, collapse, warp etc).It is widely accepted that;
"Structural engineering is about ensuring a structure is capable of standing up and can withstand the pressures of use that the building is subjected to - including the potential weather conditions for the locality"

The Engineer will be able to advise on the safe removal of walls, chimney breasts etc. They will also cover groundwork issues like foundation types and solutions for refurbishing old damaged buildings.

Do I need One? The answer to this question depends entirely on the complexity of your building project. If your new extension has no new steelwork/load-bearing beams or columns and the only new structural elements are timber joists & rafters then your Architect / Architectural Technician should be able to get by without a Structural Engineer.
If however, load-bearing walls are being modified/removed, chimney breasts are being removed or other structural elements are being tampered with, it is crucial than you employ a structural engineer. Not only will he be able to give valuable advice but he will also be able to prepare the necessary calculations required for Building Regulations Approval.

Note Most house extensions will require some sort of structural calculation as in most cases the existing external wall will need to be punctured to provide access to the new building.