When it comes to ensuring the safety, stability, and longevity of your home, hiring the right residential structural engineer is crucial. Whether you’re building a new house, adding an extension, or making repairs to an existing structure, a qualified structural engineer can save you time, money, and potential headaches down the road.
But how do you choose the right one?
Not all engineers are created equal, and picking the best professional for your specific needs takes careful consideration. To help you make an informed decision, here are 7 essential questions to ask before hiring a residential structural engineer.
1. Are You Licensed?
First and foremost, make sure your structural engineer is licensed to practice in your state. Licensing ensures the engineer has met rigorous education, training, and examination standards necessary to legally offer services. In the U.S., engineers typically hold a Professional Engineer (PE) license, which indicates they’re qualified to design and approve structural plans.
Bonus tip: Ask about additional licensing or professional memberships, such as being a licensed Structural Engineer (SE), and/or belonging to the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE), or the Structural Engineers Association of your state. Membership in these organizations often signals a commitment to continuing education and industry best practices.
2. What Kind of Residential Projects Have You Worked On?
Not all structural engineers specialize in residential projects. Some may focus primarily on commercial buildings, industrial facilities, or infrastructure. You want someone with hands-on experience in residential structures — houses, townhomes, condos, or small apartment buildings.
Ask for examples of similar projects they’ve completed.
- Have they designed custom homes?
- Repaired foundation problems?
- Engineered multi-family projects?
An engineer who’s familiar with residential codes, local permitting processes, and common home construction methods will be far better equipped to meet your needs.
3. Can You Provide References or a Portfolio?
A trustworthy residential structural engineer should be able to provide references from past clients or a portfolio of completed projects. Speaking with previous clients can give you insight into the engineer’s reliability, communication style, and the quality of their work.
When contacting references, consider asking:
- Were they satisfied with the service and final deliverables?
- Was the project completed on time and within budget?
- How well did the engineer communicate and respond to questions or concerns?
A reputable engineer should have no problem connecting you with a few happy homeowners or builders they’ve worked with.
4. What Is Your Process for My Specific Project?
Every residential project is different — from simple load-bearing wall removals to complex custom home designs. It’s important to understand how the engineer plans to approach your project.
Ask them to outline their process:
- How will they assess the existing structure?
- What calculations and drawings will they provide?
- How involved will they be during construction?
Ideally, your residential structural engineer should be able to explain their workflow clearly and provide a realistic timeline for delivering plans, reports, or inspections.
5. How Do You Handle Permitting and Building Codes?
Structural work on a home almost always requires building permits and code compliance. An experienced residential structural engineer should be familiar with local building codes, zoning laws, and the permitting process for your municipality.
Make sure to ask:
- Will they prepare documents suitable for permit submission?
- Can they assist with addressing plan check comments from the city?
- How familiar are they with local seismic, wind, snow, or flood load requirements?
Having an engineer who understands the nuances of your area’s regulations can save you weeks of delays and potentially costly revisions.
6. What Are Your Fees and What’s Included?
Transparency about fees is important from the beginning. Structural engineering costs can vary depending on project complexity, size, and location. Some engineers charge a flat fee, while others may bill hourly.
Ask for a detailed proposal that clearly outlines:
- Scope of services
- Deliverables (drawings, calculations, site visits)
- Payment schedule
- Additional costs (such as revisions, site inspections, or permitting assistance)
Understanding what’s included upfront will help you avoid unexpected expenses later. Don’t automatically pick the lowest bidder — experience, thoroughness, and communication are well worth paying a little more for when it comes to the structure of your home.
7. Will You Be Available During Construction?
A good residential structural engineer doesn’t disappear after delivering the plans. Construction is a dynamic process, and sometimes questions or unforeseen issues arise on-site. Having your engineer available for construction support can make a big difference.
Clarify their availability for:
- Structural Foundation and Framing Observations
- Coordination with your contractor or architect
- Responding to Requests for Information (RFIs)
- Making minor adjustments to plans if needed
An engineer who is willing to stay involved during construction ensures that your home is built according to specifications — helping to protect your investment and your safety.
Final Thoughts: Choosing the Right Residential Structural Engineer
Finding the right residential structural engineer is one of the most important steps you can take for a successful home project. Beyond technical expertise, you want someone who communicates well, understands residential construction, and is committed to helping you achieve a safe, efficient, and beautiful outcome.
By asking these seven questions, you’ll be well-equipped to select a professional who not only meets your technical needs but also provides peace of mind throughout your project.
Whether you’re planning a home addition, fixing structural issues, or building your dream house from the ground up, the right residential structural engineer will be your trusted partner in turning your vision into reality.
Need help finding a residential structural engineer for your project?
Contact ISE Structural Engineers today — our experienced team is here to guide you every step of the way.
