Do I need a structural engineer to knock down a wall?

• <div><p>In many areas, advice from a structural engineer or an architect will be required by your building department before you can remove a wall, but even if it’s not necessary, it’s a good idea. Accidentally removing a load-bearing wall—even if a general contractor advises that it’s safe—can cause major structural damage, putting you and your family at risk and potentially costing thousands or tens of thousands of dollars in property damage.</p></div>

Get matched with top structural engineers in Cedar Springs, MI

Q: What is the typical process architects follow from concept to completion?

• <div><p>The process involves initial consultation, concept development, detailed planning, regulatory approvals, and integration of contractor work for project execution.</p></div>

Q: Can hiring a pro prevent future structural issues?

• <div><p>Their expertise in identifying potential problems early and implementing durable solutions safeguards your home&rsquo;s integrity.</p></div>

Q: How can I tell if a home I purchased in an earthquake zone is bolted to the foundation?

• <div><p>Generally, you can tell if a home is bolted to the foundation by checking the foundation for plates. If you see that your foundational plates connect to wood or bolts protruding from them, this means that you have a bolted foundation. However, it's always wise to bring a home inspector in to confirm if your foundation is secure.</p></div>

Q: What do structural engineers look for when doing an inspection?

• <div><p>Structural engineers typically conduct inspections during a home sale or renovation, looking for signs of structural damage in various structures throughout the building, such as load-bearing walls, joists, beams, roofing trusses, foundations, and chimneys. Some of the warning signs that structural engineers check for include:</p><ul><li><p>Dry rot</p></li><li><p>Infestation</p></li><li><p>Shifting or<a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/quarter-inch-crack-my-foundation-major-concern.htm"> cracking foundations</a></p></li><li><p>Erosion</p></li><li><p>Water damage</p></li><li><p>Sagging, shifting, or damaged walls, ceilings, or roofing support</p></li></ul><p></p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Structural Engineering pros in Cedar Springs, MI

*The Angi rating for Structural Engineering companies in Cedar Springs, MI is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Structural Engineering needs.

*The HomeAdvisor rating for Structural Engineering companies in Cedar Springs, MI is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Structural Engineering needs.

Last update on May 21, 2026

Reviewed in May 2026
Spaces Designer Homes does a great job with design, project management and budgeting. Highly recommend!
Spaces Designer Homes
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Reviewed in February 2026
Jose Contreras at solid structures llc painted the whole interior of my house. Very happy with the results and his work. 100 percent recommend!!
Solid Structures LLC
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Reviewed in May 2024
Owner (GS), Sales Team (Gordon), Project Manager (Brian), and the entire construction team were all great. Would definitely use again.
Michigan Construction Services, LLC
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Reviewed in September 2023
He reviewed the structural integrity of our log cottage and made recommendations. Still waiting for a small update on the final report.
SJW Engineering LLC
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Reviewed in March 2023
We had cathedral ceilings and very high walls!! They got the job done in just 3 days. A fantastic crew!! I would recommend them to anyone!! Thank You DBB BUILDERS!!
Design Bid Build Builders LLC
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Reviewed in January 2023
As a general contractor, I'm always looking for quality tradesmen. David is a keeper. Not only did he do a great job installing a complicated metal roof, he also communicated well and followed through on all details, large and small. I can "highly" recommend him for your next...
Mitten Exteriors
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Reviewed in December 2021
Greg and his team were very prompt and professional if you are looking for a construction crew look no further you will not be disappointed!! Highly recommend!!
DG Construction and Project Management
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Reviewed in August 2019
Eli, was great to work with. We discussed what I was looking for, he provided recommendations, including data on the equipment he proposed to install and how it would operate. We agreed upon the design he provide me with a quote and delivered as promises. I would hire Eli again as well as...
3 PHAZE ELECTRIC LLC
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Reviewed in August 2017
I got a voicemail and was directed by voicemail to send a text to the number. I sent a text indicating I needed an inspection to verify that the bricks of the chimney were sound and if so a letter indicating such for an FHA refinance. I got a response in 15 minutes. I called him back about 2...
The Chimney Specialist LLC
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Reviewed in May 2017
Jonathan is clearly passionate about his craft—that's why I hired him. He walked me through an inspection of his own pointing out technical flaws with the existing build. He gave me a quote right there, and I gave him a downpayment. Contractors like the Deck Dudes are usually in high demand, so...
The Deck Dude LLC
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Find Structural engineers in Cedar Springs

Robert Cowles PE

5.0(

)

Serving Cedar Springs, MI and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2004

Offers commercial services

"Robert responded quickly to my request. He provided me with the services I needed in a timely fashion. I would recommend Robert Cowles PE for your project."

Response time1 day

10 neighbors recently requested a quote

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Foundation Specialist, LLC

4.2(

)

Serving Cedar Springs, MI and surrounding areas

In business since 2012

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"I'm selling a home in Holland. The appraiser noticed a crack in the poured concrete foundation and asked for further investigation by a licensed foundation expert. Bryan Foster showed up promptly, provided a written report that confirmed no settlement, bowing or water intrusion, and charged a fair price. I didn't need or ask for an estimate, but Mr. Foster provided one free. I appreciate that the estimate was separate from the inspection report."

Recommended by85%of homeowners

Serving Cedar Springs, MI and surrounding areas

In business since 2018

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

"It was very good. They were professional. They were very quick in the work."

+101

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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Structural Engineering questions, answered by experts

The process involves initial consultation, concept development, detailed planning, regulatory approvals, and integration of contractor work for project execution.

Their expertise in identifying potential problems early and implementing durable solutions safeguards your home’s integrity.

Generally, you can tell if a home is bolted to the foundation by checking the foundation for plates. If you see that your foundational plates connect to wood or bolts protruding from them, this means that you have a bolted foundation. However, it's always wise to bring a home inspector in to confirm if your foundation is secure.

Structural engineers typically conduct inspections during a home sale or renovation, looking for signs of structural damage in various structures throughout the building, such as load-bearing walls, joists, beams, roofing trusses, foundations, and chimneys. Some of the warning signs that structural engineers check for include:

Dry rot
Infestation
Shifting or cracking foundations
Erosion
Water damage
Sagging, shifting, or damaged walls, ceilings, or roofing support

In many areas, advice from a structural engineer or an architect will be required by your building department before you can remove a wall, but even if it’s not necessary, it’s a good idea. Accidentally removing a load-bearing wall—even if a general contractor advises that it’s safe—can cause major structural damage, putting you and your family at risk and potentially costing thousands or tens of thousands of dollars in property damage.

The Cedar Springs, MI homeowners’ guide to structural engineering services

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

See all articles

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May 5, 2026May 5, 2026
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