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Ballpark for a Structural Engineer

15 years ago

As stated earlier my family is remodeling an older home. We plan on opening two entries from 5 feet to 8 feet and knock down one 10 foot wall in the kitchen to open the same into the den. We have had three contractors look at the project. The last contractor stated that he thought it would be in our best interest to have a sturctural engineer visit the home and draw up blue prints of the home (currently not available) and discuss whether we can or can not do the changes. I agree with the contractor that it probbly is in our best interest. Any idea what something like this runs? Do they need to do the entire home or just the area where the kitchen wall is being knocked down? Thanks

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Comments (2)

User
15 years ago
Here in greater Chicago, we hired a SE for a consultation about supporting one area as we wanted to know out a wall. That's all he considered, but it involved looking at the roof support, too. Consultation for 1 hr was about $300. We engaged his services and he drew up plans (which we needed for building permits), and the additional cost was about another $900. That money gave my husband huge huge huge peace of mind!
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russ_ut
15 years ago
There is a big range. I would say anywhere from $70->$200+. For residential work I would cap it around $125. Rates higher than that are for more specialized/technical sectors, industrial etc.

$1200 total for the above posters job sounds like a good price for the worked performed. For drawn plans with the engineers seal on it to submit to the city. Residential work is a no brainer but you have to keep your fees up because it is high liability.

There are some tricks to keep the cost down. Don't specifically look for a structural engineer (SE). Search for a professional engineer (PE) also. Both take the same classes and graduate with the same degree. SE's just take and pass more exams latter in there career. Some states don't differentiate between the two, but some say a PE is limited to 10 story buildings and can't do public facilities etc..

Savings item two. If you do not have to submit stamped prints to the city etc. let the engineer know this. Inform them you are looking just for recommendations. Basically you are waiving the engineerÂs liability and need to carry insurance. BUT, if all of a sudden you need sealed prints, expect a hefty bill. Maybe pre-negotiate the price if this happens.

I wouldn't hesitate waiving the engineerÂs liability if you pick a half decent one....... To get a god one. Call a couple architecture firms near you and ask who they use for an engineer. Interview the engineer and pick the one who has been at it for a number of years. Also check with the state (can do online, free) if they have had any actions against there license.

Send me a note if you have any specific questions.
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