Do I Really Need A Structural Engineer?

Simply put, if you are planning on making renovations to your home that will impact the structure of property, then you will need a structural engineer. Structural engineers provide vital calculations to maintain the strength and stability of a building. They can identify from your renovation plans how the loads and stresses of the materials will change once the renovation has taken place - and, if this is possible. Structural engineers can also help with the organisation of the project to take place, communicating and overseeing contractors as well as communicating with any architects involved.

The science of structural engineering is not a modern concept. Some of the world’s most famous landmarks were achieved through feats and developments of structural engineering. Such as, the Eiffel Tower in Paris, the Pont Du Gard (a Roman aqueduct in France), and specialist earthquake engineering structures. And, structural engineering has been equated with famous mathematicians, scientists and artists like Leonardo Da Vinci, Galileo and Sir Isaac Newton. To become a structural engineer you need to undertake rigorous and extensive training, as well as being talented within the arts and sciences.

However, some people may be hesitant about hiring a structural engineer simply because they are worried about the cost. Furthermore, they may have had differing advice from architects and builders as to whether they are required for your project. And, as there are a variety of different roles within the construction and design of buildings - it can be overwhelming to know who to seek help from. If this sounds like you, then read on as we explore the different reasons as to why a structural engineer is extremely beneficial to your project.

Differences between structural engineer, building surveyor, chartered surveyor and architects

First and foremost, we have collated and detailed below the various roles of different persons within the construction and designing buildings industry. This will hopefully ease any concerns, or enlighten you that you actually need the help of building surveyor or land surveyor, as well as or instead of, a structural engineer.

Building Surveyor - Building surveyors specifically advise on the development, design and restoration of buildings both new and old. There are a variety of different specialisms within the building surveyor umbrella. Such as, restoring listed buildings, advising on retail constructions, or office buildings.

Chartered Surveyor - Chartered Surveyors are relatively similar to building surveyors, yet they are qualified by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors. They maintain a high level of codes of practise and standards when surveying buildings. They can also provide advice on a range of property related issues, from finding defects in buildings to valuing properties and advising on future developments - their roles are vast.

Architect - Like a chartered surveyor, not everyone can claim to be an architect. To become an architect you have to undertake the stringent process with the Royal British Institute of Architects. An architect’s main role is planning and designing the renovation of the building itself.

Party Wall Surveyor - A party wall surveyor’s primary role is to help resolve disputes regarding the Party Wall Act 1996. This is in regards to any disputes that have arisen over neighbouring properties. For example, if a construction oversteps another properties boundary, like obstructing their view or creating a health and safety concern like rows of tightly cooped houses that could be a concern for house fires.

Land Surveyor - Land surveyors are simply as the name suggests, they survey the land for construction projects. Yet, in detail, they take precise measurements of where boundary lines fall, working with sophisticated measuring and building equipment to take on the ground and satellite views. They can also tell if the ground is suitable to build upon.

As illustrated above, a structural engineer will communicate with all of these parties when a building is being constructed, however, some of them won’t be needed if you are having a renovation done. Yet, structural engineers calculations are vital to architects as well as building surveyors, therefore if you plan on working with one of these then they may recommend that you enlist the help of a structural engineer as well.

Structural Engineers can help you get planning permission

Many of us will want to make changes to our homes and land that requires planning permission, a lengthy and sometimes frustrating process. Many people want to make the planning permission process as easy as possible, therefore enlisting the help of a structural engineer can help with this.

According to The Planning Portal , a planning permission application consists of the necessary plans of the site, the required supporting documentation, the completed form itself and a fee. The mandatory supporting documentation will most likely include work from a structural engineer like calculations that supports whether the structure will be safe.

Architectural changes where you need a structural engineer

Structural engineers are often required for a variety of different architectural changes, these are listed below:

Extensions - Adding an extension to our home is a great choice for growing families, small homes, or period houses that want a modern twist. More cost-effective than upsizing, you can get extensions that fit in with the style of the home or that are seamless and modern in design.

Solar Panels - For those who are eco-conscious, it may become imperative for you to install solar panels on top of your home. Harnessing the sun’s natural powerful rays, energy is produced to heat your home and ultimately dramatically cut your electricity bill. However, installing solar panels may need the help of a structural engineer to evaluate your roof as well as how they will be linked up to the electrics of your home.

Loft Conversions - More and more of us are looking towards our loft for maximising our home space. From creating new bedrooms to office spaces, loft conversions are both stylish and practical. Plus, it can increase the value of your home.

Door and Window Modifications - Whether you have always dreamt of having arched windows and doors, or you want to add more light into a space, door and window modifications are the way to do this.

Internal Wall Modifications - Internal wall modifications are for any plans that you have regarding the walls within your home. These include plans for building a new wall, knocking down other walls, or forming an opening in a wall. These are popular choices for many homes as you can connect two living spaces together creating a larger, more open plan environment. However, they will significantly impact the structural load of other walls in the home - so enlisting the help of a structural engineer is vital.

Underpinning - Underpinning is strengthening the foundation of an existing structure of a building. This improves the overall strength and stability of the structure. Underpinning will need to take place when the supporting soil of the foundation moves away from the structure. A structural engineer is required to assess the property and calculate what needs to be done.

Chimney Removal - Many people choose to remove an old chimney breast if it is damaged or taking up valuable space in their home.

Simon Levy: Local Structural Engineer and Chartered Building Surveyors in Borehamwood, Watford, and Greater London

Simon Levy are a leading chartered building surveyors that can offer a variety of services. From providing a detailed value of your home, to organising restorative work, our experts can help you with whatever project you have in mind - even if its Grand Designs worthy!

Our team are also experienced at helping with party wall disputes and any tensions surrounding landlords and tenants. Contact us today to find out more.