The Basics Every Project Needs
Getting engineering started quickly depends on sending the right information upfront. Missing information leads to follow-up questions and delays. Here's what a structural engineer typically needs before beginning work.
Project Description
A plain-language description of what you're trying to do. Not engineering terminology — just what the project is: "We're removing the wall between the kitchen and living room and need a beam," or "We're adding a 2,000 SF second floor to an existing single-story office building." Include the occupancy type, the size, and any known constraints or special requirements.
Site Address
The project address is used to look up seismic design parameters, wind speed, snow load, climate zone, flood zone, and any applicable state-specific requirements. This takes two minutes but is essential to start the structural design.
Existing Architectural Drawings
If the building has existing drawings — permitted plans, as-builts, or shop drawings — send them. Structural engineers use architectural plans to understand the floor plan, wall locations, roof geometry, and existing structural conditions. If no drawings exist, we'll discuss how to document existing conditions (see our article on engineering without existing plans).
Proposed Architectural or Design Plans
For projects involving changes to the building, send whatever design documents you have — even if they're not final. Schematic floor plans, sketches, or architectural drawings help the structural engineer understand the scope and begin sizing structural elements. Final engineering is coordinated with the final architectural set.
Photographs of Existing Conditions
For existing building projects, photos are essential. Photograph the areas where structural work is proposed: exposed framing if accessible, foundation conditions, wall framing, roof framing, and any areas showing cracking or distress. More photos is always better. Annotated photos (labeled with directions, room names, or dimensions) are especially helpful.
Geotechnical Report (If Available)
For projects involving new foundations, building additions, or retaining walls, a geotechnical report provides soil bearing capacity, expansion potential, groundwater information, and foundation recommendations. If you have one, send it. If not, we'll advise whether one is needed for your project.
Project Timeline
Let us know your permit submittal target date or construction start date. If there's a hard deadline (bid date, city comment response deadline, construction schedule milestone), tell us upfront. This allows us to allocate resources appropriately and flag any timeline concerns early.
What If You Don't Have Everything?
Don't wait until you have every document to reach out. Send what you have with a description of what's missing. We'll review the available information, identify what we need, and let you know how to get it. Getting the project scope defined early is almost always better than waiting for a complete package.