What is the role of a Structural Engineer in your project?

  • To prepare structural design, documentation and Form 15 Certificate for Building Design.
  • Typically for residential projects this documentation would contain specifications and details for slab, foundation and structural framing design (e.g. columns, beams, bracing and tie downs).
  • Depending upon the land profile, retaining walls may be required to be detailed in the documentation to suit the client requirements.
  • This documentation can be used for pricing and construction for your potential builder.
  • It is important that this documentation is clear and easy to follow to avoid any confusion during pricing and construction.
  • Structural Engineers can provide technical advice prior to or during construction.
  • Structural Engineers can provide pre-pour and framing inspections for works undertaken by the Contractor to ensure that construction is in accordance with the design intentions.

What documentation is required for a Structural Engineering fee proposal?

  • Depending upon the scale of the project (small scale e.g. removal of column or load bearing wall and stiffening of the existing supporting member), there is no need for detailed drawings to be provided.
  • Typically we would require an electronic copy of your proposed project for us to identify the scope of work involved to assist in providing our fee proposal.

What documentation/drawings are required to be submitted to Local Government Council?

  • Project Development Approvals require a Construction Certificate. The Construction Certificate is issued by the Principal Certifying Authority who would be your Local Council or a Private Certifier.
  • The Certifier will require Structural Engineering documentation, certified by a qualified professional Structural Engineer responsible for the design.
  • Some Councils accept only Engineers who are registered with them to sign the documentation. Most certifiers insist that the Engineer has an RPEQ, NPER or CPEng qualification.
  • To be on these registers requires the Engineer to be fully qualified, with a level of experience and ongoing Continuing Professional Development to update and/or maintain skills.