Ask These Five Important Questions to Partner a Civil and Structural Engineering

Posted by Alan Wood & Partners on November 22nd, 2019

Whether you need a topographical survey, foundation design or assistance with planning application, the services of a reliable civil and structural engineering firm can be invaluable. While it’s easy to find such practices in your local vicinity, not all firms are created equal. Here are some questions to ask civil and structural engineering firms and make the right choice.

Do They Have Necessary Industry-Recognised Accreditations?

Industry-recognised accreditations and certifications such as ISO 9001:2015 – Quality Assurance, ISO 14001:2015 Environmental Accreditation, Constructionline and The Contractors Health and Safety Assessment Scheme represent credibility and commitment to provide service of the highest quality. A reliable firm of civil and structural engineers will proudly display professional accreditations on their website. Don’t hesitate to ask for more information about accreditations and certifications during the initial consultation.

Do They Have Specific Expertise?

Road construction, residential house development or temporary works – each project has its own special characteristics and engineering requirements. Ask the firm of civil engineers and structural engineerswhether they have expertise and experience for the type of project you have in mind. Land development projects are often complex and it’s wise to consider a firm with multi-disciplinary expertise. This can lead to economies of time and money. Whether it’s flood risk assessmentor ground investigations, having several teams working together can pay rich dividends.

 Do They Have the Latest Technology?

 When it comes to surveys such as topographical surveys and investigations such as ground investigations, deploying latest and appropriate technology is imperative to accurately capture and process data. Using state-of-the-art technology tools for surveys and investigations can help uncover unforeseen issues, avoid costly mistakes and ensure good design outcomes. From laser scanning technology to 3D modelling software and building information modelling, reputed civil engineering and structural engineering firms use a wide variety of technology tools to provide clients with precise and complete overviews of different project phases.

 Can They Assist with Obtaining Government Approvals?

 A land development project is never done in isolation. It requires coordinating with government agencies to obtain approvals and permissions. Planning application and planning submission processes can be quite complex. It’s best to ask the civil and structural engineering firm upfront whether they have the capability to provide assistance in these matters. The best firms offer custom packages and provide all assistance needed to navigate the complex planning submission processes and overcome hurdles. 

 Do They Possess Project Management Expertise?

The most sought-after civil engineering and structural engineering firms offer specialist services such as Principal Designer, Expert Witness and comprehensive project management services. Partnering a firm with project management expertise is a great way to ensure your project is completed on time, within budget and in keeping with safety requirements. Most construction projects are required by law to have a Principal Designer and partnering a firm that can offer the services of a Principal Designer can save you from the effort of finding one on your own.

Flood risk assessment or hazardous gas investigation – make a list of all requirements involved in your project. Create your own list of questions and ask them to prospective civil engineering firms you’d like to partner!