Guide to Appointing a Structural Engineer

Whether you need structural calculations for an extension, you’re concerned about cracking to your ceilings or you require Party Wall advice, you need to be sure that the Structural Engineer you appoint is qualified for the job. Here is our advice for appointing a top-notch Structural Engineer who will complete your project on time, within budget, and to the best of their ability:

  • The Structural Engineer should be able to demonstrate a proven track record of excellence and be willing to provide proof of Professional Indemnity insurance and professional qualifications. You can also check with the Local Authority’s Building Control Department that the Structural Engineer is well known and reputable.
  • Your project should be carried out by a suitably qualified Structural Engineer. For example, some projects specifically require input from a Chartered Structural Engineer in order to be legally sound.
  • The practice should ideally be Quality Assured to BS EN ISO 9001:2015.
  • All reports, calculations, and details for your property or project should be thoroughly checked by another member of the practice – structural calculations and drawings should always come with a ‘Checked by…’ section so you can be sure of the quality and accuracy of the structural details.
  • The Structural Engineer should have sufficient resources to be able to visit the site and provide advice rapidly to minimise delays and additional builders’ costs, if unforeseen problems develop. 
  • The Structural Engineer should provide you with a suitable Conditions of Appointment Agreement which outlines their role and duties to you, explains what you can expect from the process, and highlights their complaints procedure.

At Philip Goacher Associates we are committed to providing all of the above features to our clients, so you can rest assured that you are making the best decision by appointing us as your Structural Engineer. 

Why not contact us now to discuss your requirements and to arrange an appointment? Call 01903 217723 or email us at mail@pgoacher.co.uk for more information.