Frequently asked questions

In most cases, yes. A building certifier will not issue a development or building approval for structural work without engineering documentation. That includes removing or altering load-bearing walls, retaining walls over one metre, swimming pools, decks, carports, new builds and most extensions. If you are not sure whether your project needs an engineer, feel free to call any time — no question is too small.

Cost depends on the scope: a single retaining wall design sits at the lower end, while a full house design or a staged commercial project costs more. We quote a fixed price up front from your plans, so there are no hourly surprises. Found a better quote? We’ll match it and take a further 10% off.

Most residential jobs — retaining walls, decks, wall removals, pool surrounds — are turned around in about one to two weeks from the point we have your plans and site details. Larger or staged projects take longer. If you have a certifier deadline, tell us when you enquire and we will confirm whether we can meet it before you commit.

We work right across the Gold Coast — from Southport, Robina, Broadbeach and Burleigh Heads through to the growth corridor around Coomera, Pimpama and Helensvale, plus Nerang, Ashmore, Arundel, Miami, Anglers Paradise, Advancetown, Austinville, Alberton and Bahrs Scrub. If your suburb is not listed, call us — we almost certainly cover it.

Yes. Any change to a load-bearing wall needs an engineer’s design showing how the load is redistributed, and a private certifier will require that documentation before approving the work.

If the wall is over one metre high, sits near a boundary, or supports a load such as a driveway or pool above it, most councils and certifiers require an engineer’s design.

Yes — if you’ve spotted cracking or movement and want an engineer’s opinion before you buy, a pre-purchase structural inspection gives you a clear, written assessment before you commit.

In many cases, yes — we can inspect an existing structure, such as a retaining wall, deck or pool, and certify it if it meets the required standard, which is often needed for a sale or a certifier sign-off.

Yes — pool structural design, including any retaining, elevated support or surrounding paving, needs engineering documentation before a certifier will approve the build.

Often, yes — if your renovation adds roof or paved area, council typically requires updated stormwater management showing where that extra runoff goes.

We respond to it — that’s included as part of our service, not a separate charge.

Structural engineering design, structural inspections, reports and certifications, retaining wall design, swimming pool engineering, and civil & stormwater engineering — across residential, commercial and industrial projects.