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How much does a structural engineer cost?

UK Home Improvement

How Much Does a Structural Engineer Cost?

Many construction projects require the use of a structural engineer to help ascertain the structural integrity of a building or structure. 

Whether you’re set to embark on a new DIY project, work for a large-scale construction company or simply require some additional information regarding a structure, you may need to call upon the services of a structural engineer. This is often the case whether you’re building new structures or renovating existing ones, and structural engineers can help provide you with a more transparent view of your project.

However, like with any aspect of a project, cost is bound to be an important consideration. 

These days, it seems like the costs of just about everything are increasing from fuel to materials. Therefore, budgets have become tighter at construction sites across the country. 

In this article, we’ll examine the cost of a structural engineer, and answer the question ‘how much does a structural engineer cost?’

Read on to find out more.

What Is A Structural Engineer?

Before we delve into the specifics regarding the cost of a structural engineer, it’s important to define what one actually is. You may think it’s a role that anyone on your site can perform, but this is not the case. Instead, it is a specialist role. 

A key person in the construction of any new buildings or the renovation of existing ones, structural engineers specialise in understanding what is required to provide structural integrity to a building. These engineers will provide you with the necessary technical specifications, dimensions and calculations to ensure the design and build are done so safely and that it complies with all of the legal building regulations. 

It might sound simple, but the main objective of a structural engineer is to ensure a building is built so it does not collapse. So it’s clear to see why their role is important.

Structural engineers can help with domestic projects that are undergoing improvements as well as commercial construction projects that may be constructing a larger amount of new property. 

They also can help to identify any structural problems with existing buildings including cracking walls, sagging ceilings, damaged rooflines and even if the structure is moving. 

Typically, a structural engineer will carry out an inspection of a premises and provide a comprehensive report that outlines the condition of a structure and if any safety changes need to be made.   

Benefits Of A Structural Engineer 

Structural engineers play an essential role in the design, construction and maintenance of buildings and infrastructure. Their expertise in analysing and designing structures ensures that a building is safe, stable and capable of withstanding various loads and other environmental concerns.

Some of the key advantages of using a structural engineer includes:

Safety assurance: Structural engineers are responsible for ensuring the safety of structures. They are able to assess potential risks and consider the various loads, forces and design structures to withstand them. This is incredibly important as it helps to prevent collapses and other structural failures, ensuring the safety of occupants and users.

Compliance with codes and standards: All structural engineers are required to be well-versed in building codes and the necessary industry legislation. They help to ensure that every project complies with these regulations which are in place to safeguard the public and property. 

Optimised design: As well as safety and practicality, structural engineers work to create efficient and cost-effective designs. They consider the best use of materials, the structural integrity of the design and ways to minimise construction costs without safety being compromised. 

Sustainability: Another role that structural engineers play is promoting sustainable construction practices. They consider environmental impact, energy efficiency and the use of eco-friendly materials in their designs to contribute to sustainable development.       

Risk mitigation: By conducting thorough structural analysis, engineers identify potential risks and weaknesses in designs. This allows for easy intervention and modification to mitigate risks, preventing future issues and costly repairs.

With all of this considered, the expertise of structural engineers is essential for creating safe, efficient and sustainable structures, and their contributions are vital throughout the entire lifecycle of a construction project.   

When Do I Need A Structural Engineer?

Structural engineers are required for the majority of construction projects, and this is particularly the case when a brand-new building or structure is being constructed. In short, any kind of project that has the potential to impact the stability of a structure will likely require the expertise of a structural engineer. 

This can even include domestic projects such as loft conversions, new extensions, the removal of load-bearing walls and much more. 

If you’re unsure, it’s always better to consult an engineer to guarantee the work you are conducting is safe and you’re fully compliant with the various building standards.  

How Much Does A Structural Engineer Cost?

Now, let’s turn our attention to the question of ‘how much does a structural engineer cost?’ 

Budgets play a fundamental role in every project, and it’s important you know how much a structural engineer is going to cost before work begins. This is so you can factor this cost into the overall costs of your project. 

So, how much does a structural engineer cost?

Well, it can vary significantly depending on a wide range of factors and the rates set by the specific company you have chosen. While it is difficult to provide a definitive cost, on average you can expect to pay around £100 an hour for a structural engineer.

The frequency in which they’re required will also contribute to how much you’ll likely pay, as the more an engineer needs to visit will see the costs rack up. 

Structural engineers can carry out a wide range of different tasks, and will vary depending on what you need. While prices will vary, we’ve put together a rough guide that outlines the average prices for some of the key structural engineering services. These prices are the average as of 2024.

  • Average hourly rate – £90-£200
  • Basic project – £350-£450
  • Complex projects- Up to £10,000
  • A structural engineer inspection – £175-£300
  • A structural engineering report – £500-£2,000
  • Loft conversion consultations – £750-£2,200

One of the main factors that will determine the price of a structural engineer or one of their services is the complexity of a project. And we’ll take a closer look at these factors in the sections below. 

What Affects Structural Engineering Costs?

There are numerous factors that influence how much a structural engineer will cost. No two projects are the same, and the complexity and specifics of yours will often dictate how much an engineer charges you. Some of the main things to consider include:

The complexity of a project

As mentioned above, undoubtedly the biggest factor that will determine how much a structural engineer will charge is how complex it is. For instance, small straightforward projects are likely to be quick, simple and cheaper than complex tasks that may include the removal of walls and other elements. 

Location

It’s also important to consider your location and where you’re based. 

This is because where you live or work can, and does, impact how much a structural engineer will charge you. For example, properties in London or the south of the country, where prices tend to be more inflated, will likely have to pay higher rates than in other areas. 

Property size

Again, this factor is similar to the project complexity highlighted above. Smaller properties, such as flats or apartments, tend to be more straightforward and easier to assess. In contrast, large properties with a wide range of different elements and features that need to be considered can take longer to assess or present more complex problems. 

Planning permission

Sometimes, a structural engineer will need to submit plans to planning permission or building regulations as part of their work. If this is the case, you can expect a higher bill as a result. 

Company size 

As well as factors that relate to the specifics of your project, the size of the company you are using can determine the cost of a structural engineer. For example, the price between a smaller, independent company compared to a large national brand is likely to vary, so take some time to shop around and get a few different quotes to compare.

How Can I Reduce Structural Engineering Costs? 

In addition to making sure you do your research and get quotes from multiple companies, there are a few other things you can do to attempt to reduce structural engineering costs.

Perhaps the easiest way to do this is to look for ways to simplify your project. 

Opt for clean square lines as opposed to designs that incorporate curves as this can help make the building process more simple and is generally more cost-effective, too. 

Also, make sure you have a detailed and comprehensive plan for your project before acquiring the services of a structural engineer. This will help with reducing costs as you will have, hopefully, addressed some of the issues that a structural engineer may identify. 

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