Questions before you begin.

Existing and proposed drawings, the property postcode, photographs and a short description of your intended work are a useful start. Say what decisions have already been made and what you still need help with.

Yes. Describe the property and the change you want to make. The first step is to identify whether a survey, architectural proposal or other information is needed before engineering can be scoped.

They do different jobs. Calculations record design checks and assumptions; drawings show the layout, references and relevant details. The appointment should say which documents are included.

That depends on the work and the reliability of the available information. Some questions need an inspection or opening-up before a design can be completed. A remote review cannot verify concealed conditions.

A photograph may help frame the enquiry, but it may not show how floors, roofs and walls are supported. Further drawings, inspection or opening-up may be needed.

The responsibility must be agreed for the particular project. Permanent structural design does not automatically include temporary works or the contractor’s construction sequence.

No. They are separate processes with different purposes. A proposal may need one, both or other permissions. Check the requirements for the property and jurisdiction.

No. The building-control body assesses the relevant submission and work. The design appointment can include responding to queries, but it cannot promise an approval or completion certificate.

No. England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland have different systems and guidance. Confirm the property location and relevant route before commissioning the design.

A responsible design needs suitable dimensions, loading information and an understanding of the supports. Website examples and photographs must not be used as beam specifications.

The fee depends on the scope, structural elements, investigations and coordination required. The scope tool builds a useful brief. Any published estimate must be confirmed in a written quotation.

Timing depends on the scope, current availability and when complete information is received. Ask for a programme with the quotation; no universal turnaround is promised here.

Pause the affected work where appropriate and raise the difference with the relevant designer. Changes to the existing conditions may require reassessment before the design can be used.

Only if the written quotation expressly includes them. Third-party fees, planning work, surveys and specialist investigations should be listed separately where relevant.

Foundation design can be included in an agreed scope. It depends on suitable site and ground information and may require investigation or geotechnical input.

The retained masonry and its support need to be assessed. Do not assume a standard bracket or beam detail will suit your house.

The existing arrangement must be assessed for the proposed use. A habitable floor may introduce loads that the original ceiling structure was not designed for.

The enquiry form accepts PDF, JPEG, PNG and WebP files within the displayed size limits. Keep originals and send only information you have permission to share.

The supplied visual library is illustrative. The case-study pages identify fictional scenarios and generated images explicitly. No employee identity, qualification or completed-project claim is inferred from those pictures.

You can request a preferred date and time window. A request becomes an appointment only after the practice confirms availability directly.

It is used to review and respond to your project enquiry. Read the privacy page for the current contact details, delivery arrangements and retention information.

Exclusions vary. Common separate items include planning services, party-wall advice, ground investigations, asbestos surveys, specialist fire design and temporary works. Check the written scope rather than assuming inclusion.

Include the people involved and their responsibilities in the brief. Sharing current drawings and revisions helps coordinate the work, subject to the agreed appointment.

Send the property postcode, project type and required service. Remote design and visits may have different availability; coverage and programme must be confirmed for your project.