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Find Structural engineers in Lake Barrington

Avatar for Great Lakes Builders Inc

Great Lakes Builders Inc

4.95(
125
)
Approved Pro

Great Lakes Builders Inc

4.95(
125
)
Approved Pro
Customers say: Super punctual
Recommended by 97% of Angi customers
Recommended by 97% of HomeAdvisor customers
1946 years of experience

SUPER SERVICE AWARD WINNER 12 CONSECUTIVE YEARS. Great Lakes Builders is a structural contractor that specializes in protecting the value of existing properties through its “Structural Repair and Remediation” services and in adding value to existing properties through its “Structural Alterations” services. Great Lakes Builders has been providing "Structural Solutions" for residential, commercial and industrial properties since 1949. Great Lakes Builders provides Structural Engineering referrals to Homeowners and Building owners that require structural engineering services. Note: The phone numbers listed for Great Lakes Builders on Angi are all office landline phones so do not text us on these numbers.

"Their crew showed up on time, worked steadily on our job, explained what they were doing, got the job done on time, and cleaned up after themselves. Polite and professional the whole way. This is the second time we've used Great Lakes and would happily use them again, as well as recommend them to others."

Scott B on September 2025

SUPER SERVICE AWARD WINNER 12 CONSECUTIVE YEARS. Great Lakes Builders is a structural contractor that specializes in protecting the value of existing properties through its “Structural Repair and Remediation” services and in adding value to existing properties through its “Structural Alterations” services. Great Lakes Builders has been providing "Structural Solutions" for residential, commercial and industrial properties since 1949. Great Lakes Builders provides Structural Engineering referrals to Homeowners and Building owners that require structural engineering services. Note: The phone numbers listed for Great Lakes Builders on Angi are all office landline phones so do not text us on these numbers.

"Their crew showed up on time, worked steadily on our job, explained what they were doing, got the job done on time, and cleaned up after themselves. Polite and professional the whole way. This is the second time we've used Great Lakes and would happily use them again, as well as recommend them to others."

Scott B on September 2025


"Excellent honest work!"

Nick O on August 2024

Structural Design Corporation (SDC) is a licensed consulting engineering firm located in Libertyville, Illinois. We have been providing engineering & inspection services since 1979. We are a licensed design firm in the state of Illinois.

"Excellent honest work!"

Nick O on August 2024


Avatar for AGGO Construction & Engineering, LLC

AGGO Construction & Engineering, LLC

5.00(
11
)
Approved Pro

AGGO Construction & Engineering, LLC

5.00(
11
)
Approved Pro
Customers say: Quick response
Recommended by 90% of Angi customers
Recommended by 90% of HomeAdvisor customers
2020 years of experience

We specialize in Structural Engineering Services and various types of Construction Jobs. Structural Engineering: Structural Design & Inspections Professional Condition Assessments Streamlined Permit Planning Thorough Construction Oversight Construction & General Contracting: Construction Management Structural Framing (Steel) Custom Outdoor Living Spaces (Decks and Pergolas) Specialized Welding and Metal Work Masonry and Concrete Solutions Railing - new fabrication and rehabilitation

"I would (and almost certainly will) work with AGGO again! We are buying a house and something came up where we needed a structural engineer to inspect something on very short notice. I reached out though Angi's to any company that might possibly employ structural engineers and Linda, a Structural Engineer with AGGO got back to me right away, first thing in the morning and was able to squeeze us in that very night. Linda was thoughtful and thorough. She careful looked over everything and even brought a large, bright light since it was after dark. She took her time, answered all of our questions, and gave us advice on other concerns and things to watch out for as well as reassuring us about things we didn't need to worry about in this situation. Even though she was probably working past her normal work hours to squeeze us in, nothing felt rushed or hasty. "

Nora W on November 2025

We specialize in Structural Engineering Services and various types of Construction Jobs. Structural Engineering: Structural Design & Inspections Professional Condition Assessments Streamlined Permit Planning Thorough Construction Oversight Construction & General Contracting: Construction Management Structural Framing (Steel) Custom Outdoor Living Spaces (Decks and Pergolas) Specialized Welding and Metal Work Masonry and Concrete Solutions Railing - new fabrication and rehabilitation

"I would (and almost certainly will) work with AGGO again! We are buying a house and something came up where we needed a structural engineer to inspect something on very short notice. I reached out though Angi's to any company that might possibly employ structural engineers and Linda, a Structural Engineer with AGGO got back to me right away, first thing in the morning and was able to squeeze us in that very night. Linda was thoughtful and thorough. She careful looked over everything and even brought a large, bright light since it was after dark. She took her time, answered all of our questions, and gave us advice on other concerns and things to watch out for as well as reassuring us about things we didn't need to worry about in this situation. Even though she was probably working past her normal work hours to squeeze us in, nothing felt rushed or hasty. "

Nora W on November 2025


"I've used Domicile Consulting for several homes, after initially finding the company on Angie's List. Dan Cullen is exceptionally knowledgeable, objective and insightful. Prices are reasonable and well worth the investment. Dan takes copious pictures and compiles them in a handy report with recommendations. Highly recommended."

Christopher C on January 2020

CALL or TEXT US at 312.488.1461. Additional contact Owner Mark Hughes at [email protected]; [email protected].

"I've used Domicile Consulting for several homes, after initially finding the company on Angie's List. Dan Cullen is exceptionally knowledgeable, objective and insightful. Prices are reasonable and well worth the investment. Dan takes copious pictures and compiles them in a handy report with recommendations. Highly recommended."

Christopher C on January 2020


Thrifty Nickel Handyman & Roofing Inc.

4.96(
24
)

Thrifty Nickel Handyman & Roofing Inc.

4.96(
24
)
Customers say: Quick response
Recommended by 100% of Angi customers
Recommended by 100% of HomeAdvisor customers

Thrifty Nickel Handyman & Roofing, Inc. is a company that can build, repair and maintain virtually any residential, industrial or commercial property. From designing the project, through the entire time you occupy the property, our goal is to make sure our customers enjoy their space. Our mission is to combine quality materials with superior service, at reasonable prices, so we can provide our customers with an attractive and functional property they can be proud of. We accomplish our goal by operating with integrity and honesty. We are able to meet project schedules and budgets. We maintain a high level of trust and professionalism with our relationships with customers, suppliers, and contractors. Thrifty Nickel has been in the trades for nearly 20 years

"Shirley Barker 5 reviews 2 months ago I was so very pleased with this company From start to finish it was excellent and affordable. The employees were so nice and efficient. … More Tim Leslie 11 reviews·6 photos 4 months ago Thrifty Nickel Handyman has gone above and beyond with every project we've thrown their way, from a ceiling fan install where there wasn't one previously, adding trim under our new counter tops, replacing a side access garage door to even responding to random texts I send their way for help! You can't go wrong with these guys! Marcin Garus 1 review 3 months ago World class service from the start to the end! Head above competition in every aspect of roof replacement journey. Right people, right process, right price! Without a doubt a right decision! Beth Johanson 4 reviews 3 years ago We had our master bathroom re modeled completely. I can’t say enough about this company. Joe the owner is great, fair and visits everyday. Nancy, the project manger was so helpful and did so much to help me with the project. The guys … More marsh neff Local Guide·71 reviews·18 photos 10 months ago WHO YA GONNA CALL.? PLEASE CALL THESE GUYS! JUST DO IT, NOW! After 50 years in the construction trades and owning my own business for 27, I am impressed with the quality of work, the speed of returning calls, their … More Jeff Shervey 2 reviews a year ago Thanks to Joe and Nancy for your help. And special thanks to Johnny, Jeff, Israel, Angel and Victor. A special group of people. Beautiful workmanship and terrific guys. Was a great experience. New bathroom, kitchen, interior painting, new floors. Everything is just beautiful. Couldn't be more pleased. … More Ali Heidecke 6 reviews·2 photos 3 years ago Joe and his team were phenomenal during the entire process of building out my spa. The work is top notch! Joe pays close attention to the smallest details and the work of his team reflects this. Joe was so great at explaining things and … More Mario Moreno Local Guide·13 reviews·5 photos 2 years ago These guys are simply the best! In my past experience, having our home repaired or remodeled has always been a stressful time and now with our shower leaking we were dreading have it fixed. I contacted a few. Companies in the area and Joe … More Anna 6 reviews·1 photo 2 years ago Guys do a pretty good job, especially Israel. He did our bathrooms, kitchen floors and painted rooms in the house. But communication with Nancy (supervisor) was terrible. She was extremely rude, misinformed us about colors for ceramic tile … More Photo 1 in review by Anna Linda Snider Local Guide·17 reviews 2 years ago Promised and delivered on everything. Totally remodeled my tiny bathroom that I needed help to get into and out of the bath to a shower I can enjoy. Plus I have a new tall toilet, reinforced floors a 36 door wide enough to get thru with my … More Edward Werdell 4 reviews·7 photos 3 years ago Fantastic experience! Highly recommend for anyone looking to remodel their home. Joe and his team were a pleasure to work with. Great communication throughout the entire project, very professional, completed the project on time and the … More Holly Elderworth 7 reviews a year ago I highly recommend Thriftynickel for all your construction needs home or business. They are honest, professional, timely, and provide high quality results. We use them for all our construction needs in the salon and at home. You won’t be disappointed choosing them! … More lin caliendo 5 reviews 3 years ago We are THRILLED with the work we had done by Thrifty. They gave me my dream kitchen! All of the people who contributed to the overhaul were so pleasant and professional. We will absolutely be having them come back to work with us again. We highly recommend you do too! … More Ben 8 reviews·1 photo 3 years ago A+ service! Nancy and the crew were very professional, on time, and did a great job replacing my roof and siding! I would highly recommend Thrifty Nickel to family and friends. … More 1 Chris Diaz 9 reviews 7 years ago Called to setup an appt for work at my home, called the number and talked to a nice gentlemen and was told to contact the main office called the main office spoke to a young lady and was told that she needed to confirm as to when she could … More 6 deb lakin 2 reviews 2 years ago Joe was amazing! Answered the phone immediately- came out on same day and accomplished the task quickly and to my great satisfaction. Will definitely use them again! … More Jacob Shipley 5 reviews 5 years ago Absolutely amazing experience from start to finish. Jeff the carpenter does A+ work. Highly recommended company to use for home remodeling. Cherie Hunt 5 reviews 5 years ago I've used this company on several occasions for everything from hanging blinds to cleaning gutters. Always polite, professional, and leave everything neat and clean. Will continue to use this company in the future. Terry Szawlowski Local Guide·49 reviews·6 photos 4 years ago Wonderful! Joe is now officially my go to handyman! He was so incredibly understanding and was totally helpful. As someone with a disability, it's really nice to find someone that helpful. … More 1 Holly Kuhn 2 reviews a year ago Replacement of my garage door opener. Picked up the new opener, ceiling and exterior lighting. Fabulous! … More Mel Davenport 7 reviews·6 photos 5 days ago New So thankful for the professionalism and knowledge the Thrifty Nickel Handyman team provided in updating our kitchen plumbing and electrical to install new appliances. They responded quickly and put together a plan to work around a very tight delivery timeline and all of the last minute adjustments needed to make things go right. The quality of work, peace of mind that everything is done correctly and confidence in our team all came at a reasonable price. Refreshing to deal with a company that cares about their customers' satisfaction, not just how much they can charge. You don't always get what you pay for, especially with the companies that have to pay for all that marketing. You'll get so much more when you call the Thrifty Nickel Handyman family, I know they'll always be our first call. Thank you Joe, Jeff, Victor and Nancy for all you do! Larry, Melisa and Kyra"

Larry D on November 2024

Thrifty Nickel Handyman & Roofing, Inc. is a company that can build, repair and maintain virtually any residential, industrial or commercial property. From designing the project, through the entire time you occupy the property, our goal is to make sure our customers enjoy their space. Our mission is to combine quality materials with superior service, at reasonable prices, so we can provide our customers with an attractive and functional property they can be proud of. We accomplish our goal by operating with integrity and honesty. We are able to meet project schedules and budgets. We maintain a high level of trust and professionalism with our relationships with customers, suppliers, and contractors. Thrifty Nickel has been in the trades for nearly 20 years

"Shirley Barker 5 reviews 2 months ago I was so very pleased with this company From start to finish it was excellent and affordable. The employees were so nice and efficient. … More Tim Leslie 11 reviews·6 photos 4 months ago Thrifty Nickel Handyman has gone above and beyond with every project we've thrown their way, from a ceiling fan install where there wasn't one previously, adding trim under our new counter tops, replacing a side access garage door to even responding to random texts I send their way for help! You can't go wrong with these guys! Marcin Garus 1 review 3 months ago World class service from the start to the end! Head above competition in every aspect of roof replacement journey. Right people, right process, right price! Without a doubt a right decision! Beth Johanson 4 reviews 3 years ago We had our master bathroom re modeled completely. I can’t say enough about this company. Joe the owner is great, fair and visits everyday. Nancy, the project manger was so helpful and did so much to help me with the project. The guys … More marsh neff Local Guide·71 reviews·18 photos 10 months ago WHO YA GONNA CALL.? PLEASE CALL THESE GUYS! JUST DO IT, NOW! After 50 years in the construction trades and owning my own business for 27, I am impressed with the quality of work, the speed of returning calls, their … More Jeff Shervey 2 reviews a year ago Thanks to Joe and Nancy for your help. And special thanks to Johnny, Jeff, Israel, Angel and Victor. A special group of people. Beautiful workmanship and terrific guys. Was a great experience. New bathroom, kitchen, interior painting, new floors. Everything is just beautiful. Couldn't be more pleased. … More Ali Heidecke 6 reviews·2 photos 3 years ago Joe and his team were phenomenal during the entire process of building out my spa. The work is top notch! Joe pays close attention to the smallest details and the work of his team reflects this. Joe was so great at explaining things and … More Mario Moreno Local Guide·13 reviews·5 photos 2 years ago These guys are simply the best! In my past experience, having our home repaired or remodeled has always been a stressful time and now with our shower leaking we were dreading have it fixed. I contacted a few. Companies in the area and Joe … More Anna 6 reviews·1 photo 2 years ago Guys do a pretty good job, especially Israel. He did our bathrooms, kitchen floors and painted rooms in the house. But communication with Nancy (supervisor) was terrible. She was extremely rude, misinformed us about colors for ceramic tile … More Photo 1 in review by Anna Linda Snider Local Guide·17 reviews 2 years ago Promised and delivered on everything. Totally remodeled my tiny bathroom that I needed help to get into and out of the bath to a shower I can enjoy. Plus I have a new tall toilet, reinforced floors a 36 door wide enough to get thru with my … More Edward Werdell 4 reviews·7 photos 3 years ago Fantastic experience! Highly recommend for anyone looking to remodel their home. Joe and his team were a pleasure to work with. Great communication throughout the entire project, very professional, completed the project on time and the … More Holly Elderworth 7 reviews a year ago I highly recommend Thriftynickel for all your construction needs home or business. They are honest, professional, timely, and provide high quality results. We use them for all our construction needs in the salon and at home. You won’t be disappointed choosing them! … More lin caliendo 5 reviews 3 years ago We are THRILLED with the work we had done by Thrifty. They gave me my dream kitchen! All of the people who contributed to the overhaul were so pleasant and professional. We will absolutely be having them come back to work with us again. We highly recommend you do too! … More Ben 8 reviews·1 photo 3 years ago A+ service! Nancy and the crew were very professional, on time, and did a great job replacing my roof and siding! I would highly recommend Thrifty Nickel to family and friends. … More 1 Chris Diaz 9 reviews 7 years ago Called to setup an appt for work at my home, called the number and talked to a nice gentlemen and was told to contact the main office called the main office spoke to a young lady and was told that she needed to confirm as to when she could … More 6 deb lakin 2 reviews 2 years ago Joe was amazing! Answered the phone immediately- came out on same day and accomplished the task quickly and to my great satisfaction. Will definitely use them again! … More Jacob Shipley 5 reviews 5 years ago Absolutely amazing experience from start to finish. Jeff the carpenter does A+ work. Highly recommended company to use for home remodeling. Cherie Hunt 5 reviews 5 years ago I've used this company on several occasions for everything from hanging blinds to cleaning gutters. Always polite, professional, and leave everything neat and clean. Will continue to use this company in the future. Terry Szawlowski Local Guide·49 reviews·6 photos 4 years ago Wonderful! Joe is now officially my go to handyman! He was so incredibly understanding and was totally helpful. As someone with a disability, it's really nice to find someone that helpful. … More 1 Holly Kuhn 2 reviews a year ago Replacement of my garage door opener. Picked up the new opener, ceiling and exterior lighting. Fabulous! … More Mel Davenport 7 reviews·6 photos 5 days ago New So thankful for the professionalism and knowledge the Thrifty Nickel Handyman team provided in updating our kitchen plumbing and electrical to install new appliances. They responded quickly and put together a plan to work around a very tight delivery timeline and all of the last minute adjustments needed to make things go right. The quality of work, peace of mind that everything is done correctly and confidence in our team all came at a reasonable price. Refreshing to deal with a company that cares about their customers' satisfaction, not just how much they can charge. You don't always get what you pay for, especially with the companies that have to pay for all that marketing. You'll get so much more when you call the Thrifty Nickel Handyman family, I know they'll always be our first call. Thank you Joe, Jeff, Victor and Nancy for all you do! Larry, Melisa and Kyra"

Larry D on November 2024


Avatar for Asrow Building Consultants, Inc.

Asrow Building Consultants, Inc.

5.00(
15
)

Asrow Building Consultants, Inc.

5.00(
15
)
Customers say: Quick response
Recommended by 100% of Angi customers
Recommended by 100% of HomeAdvisor customers

FAMILY OWNED & OPERATED With more than forty years of experience, Asrow Building Consultants, a family-owned business, offers independent building consulting services with a holistic approach to problem solving and realizing your project goals. QUALITY CONSULTING SERVICES The multi-faceted methodology that we have carefully developed allow us to knowledgeably and efficiently investigate, evaluate and present you with a complete and concise picture of your property's condition, including areas of concern of which you may not have even been aware. Upon completion of this assessment, we can move forward together to create and execute a plan that incorporates all of your objectives. PRIDE & PROFESSIONALISM Asrow Building Consultants takes great pride in our professional, cost-effective process, and our commitment to remaining laser-focused on your interests and needs at all times.

"Everything went great! Bret was professional, showed up on time (and respecting all the COVID requirements), and laid out a clear picture for the Board. I'd hire him again in a heartbeat."

Jonathan F on May 2020

FAMILY OWNED & OPERATED With more than forty years of experience, Asrow Building Consultants, a family-owned business, offers independent building consulting services with a holistic approach to problem solving and realizing your project goals. QUALITY CONSULTING SERVICES The multi-faceted methodology that we have carefully developed allow us to knowledgeably and efficiently investigate, evaluate and present you with a complete and concise picture of your property's condition, including areas of concern of which you may not have even been aware. Upon completion of this assessment, we can move forward together to create and execute a plan that incorporates all of your objectives. PRIDE & PROFESSIONALISM Asrow Building Consultants takes great pride in our professional, cost-effective process, and our commitment to remaining laser-focused on your interests and needs at all times.

"Everything went great! Bret was professional, showed up on time (and respecting all the COVID requirements), and laid out a clear picture for the Board. I'd hire him again in a heartbeat."

Jonathan F on May 2020


Avatar for Homestead Improvements Inc

Homestead Improvements Inc

4.95(
19
)

Homestead Improvements Inc

4.95(
19
)
Customers say: Quick response
Recommended by 100% of Angi customers
Recommended by 100% of HomeAdvisor customers

Founded in 1993, Homestead Improvements Inc. grew from a simple handyman service to a licensed general contractor through word-of-mouth referrals. We are able to take on jobs of all sizes and types, with complete customer satisfaction as our goal. With over 20 years in the business, Homestead Improvements has put together a professional group of architects, designers, and subcontractors to make your remodeling or building experience remarkable. Check us out on the web at. homesteadimprovementsinc.com Follow us on Facebook too!!!

Founded in 1993, Homestead Improvements Inc. grew from a simple handyman service to a licensed general contractor through word-of-mouth referrals. We are able to take on jobs of all sizes and types, with complete customer satisfaction as our goal. With over 20 years in the business, Homestead Improvements has put together a professional group of architects, designers, and subcontractors to make your remodeling or building experience remarkable. Check us out on the web at. homesteadimprovementsinc.com Follow us on Facebook too!!!


Structural Dynamics Inc

4.76(
34
)

Structural Dynamics Inc

4.76(
34
)
Customers say: Super punctual
Recommended by 94% of Angi customers
Recommended by 94% of HomeAdvisor customers

Licensed Structural Engineers and Structural repair contractors. Investigation and repair of structural defects. Structural Engineering inspections and reports for all types of structures. Sinking buildings lifted and stabilized, foundations replaced, beams replaced, bearing walls removed, leaning and bowed foundation walls straightened and stabilized. Additional Service Area: Portions of Lee County.

"Dishonest and poor workmanship. Hired to remove and replace deteriorated framing. Contract was signed to be billed on a time and material basis. Hours billed was to include only travel time from their base in Sycamore to my property (20-30 min), pick-up of project materials, and work performed. I purchased all required project materials, per provided list. I was assured that all of my calls and questions would be answered before, during, and after work is completed, however owner, Theodore C., has been refusing contact since I signed the contract. Work took them 5 weeks, yet they worked only 14 days during that period, putting work on hold multiple times to start work for other customers. I complained multiple times about the crew not working, instead spending ~30 min every hour smoking in their truck or north side of house. A large section of wall, 10-15 feet in length, was left open for an extended period of time (roughly a week). This left my crawlspace exposed to the elements (this was during a period of frequent rain), as well as animals. Despite my crawlspace being encapsulated, I am still working to combat the moisture present from their negligence. The completed work is unsatisfactory, as it is out of level with large open gaps (you can see light comming thru), and I cannot be sure if it is even safe. SD representative, Denny S., was supposed to have filed a permit with the City of Elgin (signed by me same day as I signed contract) and had stated that he had the permit on hand at the start of work. He provided date of final inspection and I waited all day for the inspector to arrive—they never did. After that, I called the city multiple times regarding the permit for the now completed work, however they had no record of a permit application being approved, or even filed. Crew was present on my property for an average of 5-6 hours a day; I reported end times to SD rep every day via text message. Total hours present on property equaled 80.25 hours. SD is billing for 108.25 HR + some trips to Lowe’s, and is not willing, nor able to explain difference in hours worked or the added shopping charges (I had purchased all materials). At first, the invoice billed for dates when no work was performed, an “adjusted” invoice showed the same hours worked, only changing dates. I requested an explanation of the charges multiple times, however SD reps refused to provide an answer. The only explanation I was able to receive from SD’s secretary after I expressed that I do not understand how there can be such a difference between the billed hours and the hours actually worked, given that I had recorded start/end times, was that “customers are usually not present while they are working” (based on this statement, I assume I am not the first to be overcharged). After SD failed to provide explanation of charges and refused to adjust invoice, payment was submitted for 96 HR (less deposit) = 80.25 HR + 14 HR travel (14 days) + 1.75 HR for materials pick up (store pick up prepaid by me). This leaves an overcharge of 12.25 hours + Lowe’s charges that aren’t related to work performed on my property (I purchased and paid for all materials from Menards). The crew was also disrespectful to me and my property. One worker referred to my house as “three pigs home,” referring to myself, my daughter, and our dog. They also took things from my garage without permission. I have cameras in my garage, as well as the front and back of my house, and was present for much of the work, allowing me to experience their behavior. I submitted a complaint to the BBB on 09/19/21, however they closed the complaint after they failed to receive a response from SD. Shortly after, SD reps contacted me stating that I need to pay an additional $350 for them to finalize the permit with the city (~3 weeks after jobs end), and have since received an updated balance statement charging interest for the still unexplained charges."

Malgorzata D on October 2021

Licensed Structural Engineers and Structural repair contractors. Investigation and repair of structural defects. Structural Engineering inspections and reports for all types of structures. Sinking buildings lifted and stabilized, foundations replaced, beams replaced, bearing walls removed, leaning and bowed foundation walls straightened and stabilized. Additional Service Area: Portions of Lee County.

"Dishonest and poor workmanship. Hired to remove and replace deteriorated framing. Contract was signed to be billed on a time and material basis. Hours billed was to include only travel time from their base in Sycamore to my property (20-30 min), pick-up of project materials, and work performed. I purchased all required project materials, per provided list. I was assured that all of my calls and questions would be answered before, during, and after work is completed, however owner, Theodore C., has been refusing contact since I signed the contract. Work took them 5 weeks, yet they worked only 14 days during that period, putting work on hold multiple times to start work for other customers. I complained multiple times about the crew not working, instead spending ~30 min every hour smoking in their truck or north side of house. A large section of wall, 10-15 feet in length, was left open for an extended period of time (roughly a week). This left my crawlspace exposed to the elements (this was during a period of frequent rain), as well as animals. Despite my crawlspace being encapsulated, I am still working to combat the moisture present from their negligence. The completed work is unsatisfactory, as it is out of level with large open gaps (you can see light comming thru), and I cannot be sure if it is even safe. SD representative, Denny S., was supposed to have filed a permit with the City of Elgin (signed by me same day as I signed contract) and had stated that he had the permit on hand at the start of work. He provided date of final inspection and I waited all day for the inspector to arrive—they never did. After that, I called the city multiple times regarding the permit for the now completed work, however they had no record of a permit application being approved, or even filed. Crew was present on my property for an average of 5-6 hours a day; I reported end times to SD rep every day via text message. Total hours present on property equaled 80.25 hours. SD is billing for 108.25 HR + some trips to Lowe’s, and is not willing, nor able to explain difference in hours worked or the added shopping charges (I had purchased all materials). At first, the invoice billed for dates when no work was performed, an “adjusted” invoice showed the same hours worked, only changing dates. I requested an explanation of the charges multiple times, however SD reps refused to provide an answer. The only explanation I was able to receive from SD’s secretary after I expressed that I do not understand how there can be such a difference between the billed hours and the hours actually worked, given that I had recorded start/end times, was that “customers are usually not present while they are working” (based on this statement, I assume I am not the first to be overcharged). After SD failed to provide explanation of charges and refused to adjust invoice, payment was submitted for 96 HR (less deposit) = 80.25 HR + 14 HR travel (14 days) + 1.75 HR for materials pick up (store pick up prepaid by me). This leaves an overcharge of 12.25 hours + Lowe’s charges that aren’t related to work performed on my property (I purchased and paid for all materials from Menards). The crew was also disrespectful to me and my property. One worker referred to my house as “three pigs home,” referring to myself, my daughter, and our dog. They also took things from my garage without permission. I have cameras in my garage, as well as the front and back of my house, and was present for much of the work, allowing me to experience their behavior. I submitted a complaint to the BBB on 09/19/21, however they closed the complaint after they failed to receive a response from SD. Shortly after, SD reps contacted me stating that I need to pay an additional $350 for them to finalize the permit with the city (~3 weeks after jobs end), and have since received an updated balance statement charging interest for the still unexplained charges."

Malgorzata D on October 2021


Avatar for MB Design & Build

MB Design & Build

4.77(
64
)

MB Design & Build

4.77(
64
)
Customers say: True professional
2002 years of experience

MB Design is a boutique architectural design and construction company offering personalized design and construction services tailored to maximize your budget. We specialize in Architectural/Interior design and Full Home renovations.

"If you are deciding between contractors, stop thinking about it and hire Martins, I promise you will be happy with your decision. It is hard for me to put into words what an unbelievable job Martins did with our built ins and how much I enjoyed working with him. My wife and I were nervous because we had never done any sort work on our home and finding Martins was a godsend. In all honesty we are very picky and sometimes hard to work with (just ask our wedding vendors haha) but I cannot think of one thing we would have change in our experience working with Martins and how the built ins turned out. He is very good at what he does and just a very honest guy that you can trust with your project. He cared about how everything would look and function almost more than we did if you can believe that. His attention to detail was impeccable and is exactly what you want when you are making a big change to your living space. Every one of our friends that come over are in awe of our new built ins. Martins is a true artist!"

Vadim V on May 2021

MB Design is a boutique architectural design and construction company offering personalized design and construction services tailored to maximize your budget. We specialize in Architectural/Interior design and Full Home renovations.

"If you are deciding between contractors, stop thinking about it and hire Martins, I promise you will be happy with your decision. It is hard for me to put into words what an unbelievable job Martins did with our built ins and how much I enjoyed working with him. My wife and I were nervous because we had never done any sort work on our home and finding Martins was a godsend. In all honesty we are very picky and sometimes hard to work with (just ask our wedding vendors haha) but I cannot think of one thing we would have change in our experience working with Martins and how the built ins turned out. He is very good at what he does and just a very honest guy that you can trust with your project. He cared about how everything would look and function almost more than we did if you can believe that. His attention to detail was impeccable and is exactly what you want when you are making a big change to your living space. Every one of our friends that come over are in awe of our new built ins. Martins is a true artist!"

Vadim V on May 2021


JSG DESIGN LLC

4.70(
23
)

JSG DESIGN LLC

4.70(
23
)
Customers say: True professional
Recommended by 91% of Angi customers
Recommended by 91% of HomeAdvisor customers

GSJ Design LLC is a company with over 10 years of experience. We subcontract Licensed Architect Barry Greenberg and we offer architectural service under his supervision. We hold Permit Expediting License and we offer permit expediting for repair and replacement work at any building.

"Szczepan designed our balcony deck and applied for a building permit from the City of Chicago. Szczepan was highly knowledgeable and was always there to answer our questions and address our needs. Everything happened promptly and on schedule. Szczepan made the process of applying for a building permit a breeze. We highly recommend him and want to work with him again on future projects."

Geoffrey Z on October 2022

GSJ Design LLC is a company with over 10 years of experience. We subcontract Licensed Architect Barry Greenberg and we offer architectural service under his supervision. We hold Permit Expediting License and we offer permit expediting for repair and replacement work at any building.

"Szczepan designed our balcony deck and applied for a building permit from the City of Chicago. Szczepan was highly knowledgeable and was always there to answer our questions and address our needs. Everything happened promptly and on schedule. Szczepan made the process of applying for a building permit a breeze. We highly recommend him and want to work with him again on future projects."

Geoffrey Z on October 2022

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Structural Engineering questions, answered by experts

Most lenders and homeowner’s insurance companies don’t mandate a structural engineer’s inspection, so in most cases, it’s not required. However, it’s a good idea to have one done anyway to ensure you know what you’re buying. You can use the report to carry out repairs after closing or even to negotiate the sale price before closing.

A construction manager is particularly useful in the case of a large-scale build with custom design elements, so it’s usually worth it to hire one. They can help manage your budget, maintain quality control, oversee timelines, and navigate unexpected hurdles. While construction managers are pricey, they can actually save money in the long run by identifying cost-saving opportunities and ensuring the project stays within budget.

The primary reason homes have crawl spaces is so the foundation can reach down below the frost line to avoid dangerous soil movement and structural damage when the ground freezes. They’re more popular in colder climates where the ground freezes down to a few feet, and slabs are most popular in warmer areas where there is no frost line. Crawl spaces also provide a space for utility lines to run where they’re at less of a risk of freezing.

Failure to compact the soil during construction is the most common cause of leaning retaining walls. In addition, poor drainage can lead to excessive water pressure behind a retaining wall, pushing against it until it begins to move forward away from the soil it is holding back.

Most load-bearing walls are exterior, though they can also be interior.

The Lake Barrington, IL homeowners’ guide to structural engineering services

From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.