FAQs

General Question & FAQs

What is a structural engineer?

A structural engineer is a licensed professional who evaluates the strength and stability of buildings. They determine whether walls can be removed, beams need to be sized, foundations are failing, and what structural support is required for safety and code compliance.

Why do I need a structural engineer?

You need a structural engineer anytime a project affects the structure of your home—including wall removal, additions, sagging floors, foundation concerns, new beams, or anything requiring a permit. Engineers provide the calculations and drawings needed for safe construction.

When do I need a structural engineer instead of a contractor?

You need a structural engineer when:
• A wall may be load-bearing
• Your city requires drawings or engineering stamps
• You’re adding new loads (rooms, additions, beams, decks, etc.)
• Your home shows signs of structural movement
• A lender or inspector flagged an issue

Contractors build the plan—engineers create it.

How do I know if my house is falling down or unsafe?

Warning signs include: sagging floors, cracking walls, sticking doors, bowing basement walls, sinking foundations, and water damage. A structural inspection can determine the cause and provide a solution.

What does a structural engineer actually do?

We evaluate existing conditions, determine load paths, calculate beam sizes, provide repair recommendations, and create permit-ready drawings for construction. We also offer follow-up support for you or your contractor.

Does my foundation need fixing?

Foundations may need repair if you notice cracks, water intrusion, shifted blocks, bowing walls, sloping floors, or sinking areas. Our inspection will determine whether repairs are needed and what type.

What is included in drafting services?

DraftLab’s drafting services include:
• 2D/3D drawings
• Floor plans
• Remodel layouts
• Addition plans
• Framing drawings
• As-built drawings
• Full permit packages

All drawings can be reviewed and stamped by a licensed engineer if needed.

Are We Affordable To Hire?

Yes, we offer competitive pricing tailored to your project needs, ensuring high-quality results that fit your budget without compromising on excellence.

What We Offer To You?

We provide tailored design solutions, including interior and exterior concepts, renovations, furniture layouts, and engineering services. Our goal is to deliver exceptional results that align with your vision and needs

How much do drafting & engineering services cost?

Costs vary by project size and complexity:


• Inspections: $450–$650
• Engineering drawings: $1,200–$1,500
• Drawing reviews: $800–$2,500
• Remodel drawings: $1,500–$5,000
• Full new home drawings: $5,000–$15,000
• Commercial drawings: $7,500–$20,000

We provide clear estimates before beginning any work.

How do I get a building permit?

You typically submit engineered drawings, calculations, and permit forms to your city or county. We guide you through the process and ensure your drawings meet permitting standards. All drawings are guaranteed to be complete for permitting.

Can I remove this wall?

Maybe—only a structural evaluation can confirm. We determine if a wall is load-bearing and provide engineered plans for beams, posts, and supports if removal is safe.

What size beam do I need to replace a wall?

Beam size depends on your home’s layout, loads, span length, and building code requirements. We calculate the correct beam size and provide plans your contractor can build from.

How fast can I get an inspection?

Typically 1–2 weeks, depending on your location and project needs. Emergency inspections may be available upon request.

Do your inspections include follow-up?

Yes. All inspections include follow-up communication with the homeowner or construction professionals to ensure the issue is resolved correctly.

Do your drawings come with a guarantee?

Yes. All drawings are guaranteed to be complete for permitting. If the city needs changes, we make them.

What areas do you serve?

• Drafting services: All of Ohio
• Inspections: Within 45 minutes of Dublin / Columbus

Do you work with contractors, realtors, and architects?

Yes—our clients include contractors, realtors, homeowners, home buyers, lenders, architects, and commercial clients.

Do you offer engineering stamps?

Yes. All engineering drawings can be professionally stamped for permit submission.

How long do drawings take?

Most drawing packages take 1–3 weeks, depending on complexity. Larger homes or commercial projects may take longer.

What is the best way to get started?

You can call, text, or submit a form on the website. We’ll ask a few questions about your project and provide a quote or schedule an inspection.

What makes The Residential Engineer different?

• You get an engineer who actually answers the phone
• 1–2 week availability (not 2–6 months like architects)
• Real construction and building experience
• Fair pricing
• Fast follow-through
• Permit-ready accuracy

Any Questions?

Ask Us!!

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