In any new construction, the civil structural design stage is crucial to ensuring the longevity and durability of your project. Civil structural engineers work alongside architects to confirm and certify that your building-to-be will incorporate the right framework, structural supports and design to meet regulatory requirements and safeguard its long-term viability.
That’s why knowing how to choose the best structural engineer for your project is so vital. Without them, structures can be prone to collapse due to natural disasters and the ravages of time, becoming unsafe and diminishing your significant investment. They’re responsible for researching, planning, building inspections, monitoring, maintenance and even demolition of structures taking into account the technical, financial, aesthetic and social uses of a building.
Experienced civil structural engineers can also suggest design efficiencies into your build that will save you money. But not all structural engineers are created equal. Here’s how to pick the right one for you:
- Don’t just go by degrees. Of course, your structural engineer should have a relevant degree, but experience in the kind of build you’re undertaking is equally essential. Work with concrete, brick, wood and industrial plants all require different skill sets. They should also have an excellent overall knowledge of construction practices to keep down costs, improve accountability during the build and make sure the construction process isn’t unnecessarily complicated. What to ask: Can you provide a list of relevant industry projects similar to mine? Can I contact previous clients to determine whether we’re a good fit?
- What is their breadth of experience? Your final choice should be able to apply their knowledge and skills to ensure the structure is sound, meets code requirements, is fit-for-purpose, and adds value to your project. They should take a holistic approach, ensuring any structural work fits in with the entire building environment and purpose rather than focus on fixing isolated problems. What to ask: How have you solved a structural problem? What is your fundamental design philosophy?
- Are they registered? Make sure your structural engineer has the necessary licenses that allow them to take responsibility for drawings, calculations and work legally. If in doubt, check the website of your state’s regulatory body for more details. What to ask: Can I see all your relevant licenses and details of your body of work?
- Do they provide a comprehensive scope of work? All structural engineers should provide you with a scope of work that defines what is to be done to bring your vision to life. This document gives you an opportunity to compare different experts and proposals and accurate cost assessments of all structural works to be completed. You’ll want it to be as detailed as possible. What to ask: What’s included in your scope of work?
- Creative thinking. Because every project is unique, you'll want to hire someone who can think outside the box to create an innovative solution to complex structural problems. Firms that stay up to date with the latest engineering technologies or software (such as 3D modelling) and have a stellar track record when it comes to the technical issues facing constructions similar to yours should be a good fit. What to ask: Can you show me case studies of similar buildings you've worked on previously?
When it comes to civil structural designs, structural inspections and building inspections, we tick all the boxes. Talk to us today about how we can add value to your next project.