Question 1

Do I need a structural engineer for a renovation or extension?

Accepted Answer

Structural engineering is commonly required where works affect load-bearing walls, beams, columns, floor or roof framing, foundations, retaining structures, or where additional loads are introduced through an extension or additional storey. The required scope depends on the existing building, proposed works and approval requirements.

Question 2

Can RCC Engineers design a load-bearing wall or column removal?

Accepted Answer

Yes. RCC Engineers can assess the existing structural arrangement and design the required beam, posts, connections, footings and associated structural modifications necessary to safely redistribute the supported loads.

Question 3

Can RCC Engineers design for reactive soils or sloping sites?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Structural and footing design can be developed for reactive, sloping or otherwise constrained sites using the available geotechnical information, site classification, survey data and project requirements.

Question 4

Can RCC Engineers assess an existing or as-built structure?

Accepted Answer

Yes. RCC Engineers can undertake structural adequacy or retrospective assessments of existing and as-built structures where sufficient access and information are available. Further investigation, opening-up, testing or rectification may be required where critical structural details cannot be verified.

Question 5

Can RCC Engineers certify work designed or constructed by others?

Accepted Answer

Potentially. Certification can only be considered where RCC Engineers can independently assess the relevant design, construction and available evidence to a level appropriate for the requested certification. Additional calculations, inspections, testing or rectification may be required.

Question 6

Does RCC Engineers provide construction-stage inspections?

Accepted Answer

Yes, where included within the engineering scope. Inspections may be undertaken at relevant construction stages to review structural work against the engineering documentation and identify matters requiring clarification or rectification.

Question 7

Does the structural design consider buildability and cost?

Accepted Answer

Yes. In addition to structural adequacy and compliance, RCC Engineers considers constructability, material efficiency, architectural requirements, site constraints and practical installation when developing the structural solution.

Question 8

How long does structural design take?

Accepted Answer

Turnaround depends on the size and complexity of the project, quality of the information provided and required deliverables. RCC Engineers confirms the anticipated timeframe after reviewing the project scope.

Extensions, Renovations & Structural Alterations