Recommendation Needed >> Structural Engineer

[Chunky Monkey 2]

I will be doing some structural work to my townhouse. Does anyone have a recommendation of a good structural engineer that does not charge an arm a leg?

[yoongf 11]

If the job is minor, it may be better to get a contractor to recommend the PE. Usually, they have their preferred PE, and the rates would be more reasonable. Sometimes, an independent PE would overdesign, leaving no allowance for contractors to counterpropose cost saving measures.

[Chunky Monkey 2]

Just to update my own thread.

I left it to my main con to recommend me a PE and it turned out to be a really bad arrangement. My main con took a referral fee from the PE. I realised it when I complained to the PE that his rates were high, and he was frustrated, and blurted out that he had to pay referral fee, and the cost is passed on to me. I was cross with my main con and I didn't reveal what I knew of the arrangement. I am just waiting for my home reno to complete and do not need drama during the process.

At the end of the day, I am at the mercy of my main con and although he's a nice guy and all, I don't need a scenario for him to turn the table on me, and sabo me. I just want him to finish everything first, and then I will sort him out.

Lesson learnt >> check Yellow Pages

[RICS 0]

What you need to do is to engage the PE himself, he should/will protect your interest as a consultant.

Contractors with PE are mostly "not so reliable" as they usually placed their interest and priorities ahead of you (except for some).

The usual PEs engaged by conractors are old old type, cause little time will run out of them in the structural design liabilities. No one to look for unless you dig the grave.

yoongf is right, but you must be careful of who you engaged as the contractor.

[pwong22 0]

I'm having problems looking for a reliable PE too, if you guys do have any good recommendations or have found someone good, please send me their details. I'm looking at doing minor roof re-structural work, which require BCA approval.

[geomic 0]

All PE are govern by the PE Act and must deliver their duties with integrity and committment. You can check out for those PEs in the website (http://www.peb.gov.sg)

If fee is a consideration, go for some small consultancy firms and do not ask the contractor to recommend. You are the client.

http://www.stressreliver.blogspot.com

http://www.lovelyexperience.blogspot.com

Edited July 19, 2008 by geomic

[ordix 0]

I will be doing some structural work to my townhouse. Does anyone have a recommendation of a good structural engineer that does not charge an arm a leg?

http://www.peb.gov.sg/peb/process/displayP...2987&pc=yes

Dr Boey

Really nice guy, and its definately cheaper than any id's 'recommended price' they can give you.

Edited July 19, 2008 by ordix