Residential Structural Engineering

Who I Work With

Homeowners, residential architects, and design-build contractors who need a licensed PE to take the structural drawings from concept to a BDS-approvable stamped set. I work directly with you — or directly with your architect if you prefer.

Scope of Work

Residential projects typically require a full framing plan — so that's what I deliver. Included in a standard residential scope:

• Framing plan with member sizes and connections
• Beam and header calculations (gravity and lateral)
• Foundation adequacy assessment (existing slab, perimeter, or post-and-pier)
• Holdown and shear-wall layout for lateral (wind and seismic)
• Stamped drawings for Portland BDS permit submission
• BDS correction response — included in scope

Project Types

• New construction — residential framing plans, foundation design, lateral system from the ground up
• Additions — room additions, second-story additions, vertical additions on existing foundations
• ADUs — detached and attached accessory dwelling units
• Load-bearing wall removals — beam design, post and connection details, foundation review
• Remodels — structural alterations, opening enlargements, floor plan changes that affect structure
• Decks and exterior structures — framing, ledger connections, footing design
• Foundation work — existing foundation adequacy, drainage-related issues, underpinning design

How the Process Works

1. Send what you have — architect's plans, contractor's sketch, site photos, or a written description. No need for a complete drawing set to get a quote.
2. Same-day fixed-fee quote — I'll review scope and send a fee proposal, usually the same business day.
3. Design — 5–10 business days from approved fee agreement to stamped drawings.
4. Stamped drawings for permit — delivered in PDF, ready for BDS submission.
5. BDS corrections handled — included. I respond, revise, and resubmit as needed.

Typical Fees

• Additions — $2,500–$6,000 depending on scope and complexity
• Load-bearing wall removal — $1,500–$3,500
• ADU (new construction) — $3,500–$7,500
• Deck / exterior structure — $1,200–$3,000
• Remodels and alterations — quoted on scope

All fees are fixed and quoted before work starts. BDS correction responses are included — no hourly surprises.

FAQ

Do I need an engineer for my home addition in Portland?

Yes. Portland BDS requires stamped structural drawings for additions, second stories, ADUs, and load-bearing wall removals. A licensed PE provides those drawings — and responds to any BDS corrections, which is included in my scope.

How long does it take?

Most residential projects are complete in 5–10 business days from approved fee agreement. Complex scope — hillside lots, non-standard foundations, multi-story additions — may take up to 2 weeks. I'll give you a schedule in the quote.

What if BDS has corrections?

Correction responses are included in scope. I write the response, revise the drawings, and resubmit. You don't pay extra for a BDS back-and-forth.