Working with Structural Engineer Question - Contractor Talk - Professional Construction and Remodeling Forum

Gitrdone · 08-09-2009, 07:44 PM

I have never needed to deal directly with a structural engineer before. I am working on a project where the clients want to increase the scope of work by removing some rafters to gain headroom in an adjoining room. The rafters are original to the home and carry no roof load due to an addition that has new rafters continuing up from original ridge to a new one. However, he old rafters may be acting as purlins for the old ridge and that is why I would like a second opinion as to whether they can be removed or not. Everything is opened up and I am looking to get a site visit by a structural engineer. My question is, what paperwork do I need to get from him (if he says they can simply be cut out) to transfer liability to him.

Thanks,

Nate

**framerman** · 08-09-2009, 07:48 PM

An embossed stamp on a print. Submit it to the building dept. and get a receipt.

CYA

Warren · 08-09-2009, 07:49 PM

Basically, you just need a letter from him on his company stationary. If the building dept needs more, he can send you something more official with his stamp on it.

Gitrdone · 08-09-2009, 08:28 PM

Thank you both for your replies. It sounds like presenting his evaluation written on his letterhead to the building dept is all I need moving forward unless the city requests more.

Much appreciated,

Nate

Aggie67 · 08-09-2009, 08:58 PM

My 2 cents...

In NJ if it's going to become part of the project, the engineer will have to either provide a letter with his signature and seal, or a drawing with his signature and seal. In 8 years of doing this on residential work, I have yet to be involved in a project where the town accepted just a letter on my letterhead. Around here it doesn't matter if it's a local town, the state, Meadowlands Commission, DEP, etc, they always say it has to be sealed. In our state those rules are laid out in the administrative code (state law).

Kgmz · 08-10-2009, 09:14 AM

Around here you would need his stamp on a print, plus a copy of his calculations with stamp on them.

Mike Finley · 08-10-2009, 11:47 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Gitrdone

I My question is, what paperwork do I need to get from him (if he says they can simply be cut out) to transfer liability to him.

Thanks,

Nate

You want transfer of liability or you want to know what is it going to take to get the project inspected and passed?

If it's the latter you should call your building dept. They will tell you what they want, right down to the details, such as original only, no faxes or copies, etc...