FAQ
Get answers to common questions about our structural engineering services and how we can help with your project.
General Services
What structural engineering services does Philip and Paul offer?
We provide four core services: Structural Design for new builds and renovations, Structural Surveys for property assessments, Structural Inspections for safety and compliance checks, and Expert Witness Services for legal proceedings involving structural matters.
Are your engineers professionally qualified?
Yes, our team consists of chartered structural engineers with extensive experience across residential, commercial, and industrial projects. We maintain full professional indemnity insurance.
Which areas do you cover?
We provide structural engineering services across the UK, with particular focus on residential, commercial, industrial, and heritage properties in our local regions.
Do you work on both residential and commercial projects?
Yes, we work across all sectors, including residential properties, commercial buildings, industrial facilities, public buildings, heritage structures, and educational institutions.
Can you help with planning permission applications?
While we don’t submit planning applications directly, we provide the structural calculations and technical drawings that support your application, ensuring compliance with building regulations.
Structural Design
Do I need a structural engineer for my home extension?
Yes, most home extensions require structural calculations to ensure the new structure integrates safely with existing foundations and load-bearing elements. We also ensure your project complies with building regulations.
What's included in your structural design service?
Our structural design includes load calculations, foundation design, beam and column specifications, technical drawings, and full building regulation compliance documentation.
Can you design steel frame structures?
Yes, we design structures using various materials, including steel, concrete, timber, and masonry, selecting the most appropriate solution for each project’s requirements.
Do you provide drawings for building control approval?
Absolutely. We provide comprehensive technical drawings and calculations that meet building control requirements for approval and construction.
How do you ensure designs meet building regulations?
Our designs strictly adhere to current British Standards and Building Regulations. We stay updated with regulatory changes and maintain close relationships with local building control departments.
Surveys & Inspections
How long does a structural survey take?
Typically, a residential structural survey takes 2-4 hours on-site, depending on property size and complexity. We provide detailed written reports within 5-7 working days of the inspection.
What's the difference between a structural survey and a building survey?
A structural survey focuses specifically on the structural integrity of load-bearing elements like foundations, walls, beams, and roofs. A building survey covers broader property condition including non-structural elements.
When should I get a structural inspection?
Consider a structural inspection when buying property, after storm damage, before major renovations, if you notice cracks or structural movement, or for insurance purposes.
Do you work on historic or listed buildings?
Absolutely. We have specialist experience working with heritage structures, understanding the unique challenges of preserving historical integrity while ensuring modern safety standards.
What happens if structural problems are found during an inspection?
We provide detailed reports outlining any issues discovered, along with recommended remedial actions and priority levels. We can also provide cost estimates for necessary repairs and ongoing support.
Process & Costs
How much do your services cost?
Costs vary depending on project complexity and scope. We provide free initial consultations and detailed quotes for all services. Contact us to discuss your specific requirements.
How quickly can you start my project?
We typically begin new projects within 1-2 weeks of initial consultation, depending on current workload and project complexity. Emergency inspections can often be arranged within 24-48 hours.
What information do you need to provide a quote?
We typically need project location, property type, scope of work required, any existing drawings or plans, and details of specific structural concerns or requirements.
Do you offer emergency services?
Yes, we provide emergency structural assessments for urgent safety concerns, storm damage, or structural failures. Contact us immediately for emergency situations.
What's your typical project timeline?
Timelines vary by service: surveys take 1-2 weeks, design projects range from 2-6 weeks depending on complexity, and inspections are usually completed within days. We provide detailed schedules for each project.