when hiring a structural engineer ask these questions first

Ask These Questions Before Hiring a Structural Engineer

Are you at the start of planning a major undertaking? Here are ten questions you can ask to discuss with potential structural engineers and ensure you choose an established firm.

What is the specific area you have a specialization in?
Does the structural engineer you're looking to hire have a specialization in commercial or commercial construction? Local and state codes for each differ So it is important that they're knowledgeable about the specific kind of project you have in mind. Go to their website and then look through the section titled "Our Services" or similar to know exactly what they carry out.

​What tasks have you completed?
The projects the company has completed could be an excellent indicator of the way they serve their customers. Are they focused upon residential or short-term projects or more complicated lengthy projects that require thorough monitoring and reporting? It's an excellent idea to contact them and request references from past projects so you have an idea of their work scope and the capabilities.

​Do you know about the local code needs?
Construction regulations change often. Be sure that the firm you're looking at is current on local and state construction codes. This will eliminate many headaches throughout the course of your project.

How can you collaborate with other contractors working on this project?
Make sure the company is able to work with the contractors or builders you'd like to employ to complete your project. If you are looking for references, you should find out how fast an engineer for the structure is responding to emails or answering calls. Check out the times they are available, which includes weekend and after hours. Also, make sure to check the hours of operation during holidays when your project is scheduled to fall on the holiday. One of the worst things you can do is for contractors to be waiting on feedback from the structural engineer.

How do you bill projects?
Ask for a written statement of the fees for structural engineers. Also, request an estimate prior to any work. If you've already determined the major aspects of your work, then ask for a design fee fixed. Through the course of your project, you should be wary of any unexpected costs that come up and be suspicious of their validity. Examine the way in which the company typically requires payments. Are they requiring payment prior to they release their final product or do they have accounts?

How do you define your credentials?
Request to meet with whomever you believe your most likely contact is in your project. You can discuss their qualifications and experience. You should be comfortable communicating with the person you are meeting and confident in their capabilities.

Do structural engineers comprehend how the plan will be implemented?
Confirm that they are aware of the nature of the work and their role in it, the deliverables and anticipated deadlines.

Do you have evidence of your insurance?
​Structural engineers must be covered by some kind in liability coverage. Do not be afraid to ask for a copy or any other evidence of coverage. It must be current and reflect the kind of work involved in your project.

Have you got customers who are returning?
Clients who have repeatedly come back is an excellent indicator of structural engineers' reliability and professionalism. Examine the types of projects to ensure they are in line with the project scope you're searching for. For example repeat customers from residential homes could not be a sign of an knowledge of commercial projects..

Are you able to provide any references you can call?
​Reputation is important If you inquire about your local community, you'll find out pretty quickly how the potential structural engineer is viewed. Along with talking with other customers, look at reviews online for a non-biased view of their capabilities.

Contact our structural engineer denver professionals so we can demonstrate for you how they possess all these great qualities!