Choosing a structural contractor: the questions worth asking
The structural stage is the part of a renovation where getting it wrong costs the most. These are the questions worth asking before you hire.
Start with the paperwork
Structural work is notifiable building work. A contractor who treats engineer's calculations and building control sign-off as optional is a contractor to avoid — that completion certificate is the piece of paper your solicitor will ask for when you sell.
- Will you arrange the structural engineer, or work to my existing calculations?
- Who handles the Building Regulations application and inspections?
- Do you serve party wall notices where they are needed?
- Will I get a completion certificate at the end?
Ask about temporary works
The dangerous part of removing a wall is holding the house up while the masonry comes out. Ask how they prop and needle the structure before anything is removed. A specialist will talk you through it confidently; a chancer will wave it away.
Check the quote covers the same work
Cheap quotes usually leave something out — most often the engineer, building control, or making good. Make sure every quote you compare covers the same scope, and that you know where the structural price ends and finishing begins.
Ask for insurance details, and for firms doing commercial or contractor work, RAMS for each job. Anyone reputable produces them without fuss.
Related questions
What qualifications should a structural contractor have?
The structural design should come from a chartered structural engineer; the contractor should be experienced in temporary works and steel installation, properly insured, and willing to work to building control sign-off.
Why is one quote so much cheaper than the others?
Usually because it leaves something out — the engineer's fee, building control, fire protection or making good. Check each quote covers the same scope before comparing on price.
Ready to take it further? See our small structural alterations service.