Does a structural engineer need to be licensed?

• <div><p>Yes, all states require structural engineers to carry the proper license, with specifics determined by each state. You can use Angi’s <a href="https://www.angi.com/angi-license-check.htm">state licensing tool</a> to confirm that the structural engineer you’re considering holds the required licensing to tackle your job. Hiring an unlicensed structural engineer will not only cause issues with permits but it could also lead to an unsafe building. The cost of a professional, licensed, and experienced engineer is well worth the investment.</p></div>

Are there benefits to consulting an engineer before home modifications?

• <div><p>Absolutely, as it ensures designs are viable and won’t compromise structural integrity.</p></div>

Get matched with top structural engineers in Otsego, MI

Q: Are there benefits to consulting an engineer before home modifications?

• <div><p>Absolutely, as it ensures designs are viable and won&rsquo;t compromise structural integrity.</p></div>

Q: What is the hardest stage in building a house?

• <div><p>The early stages of building a house are harder than the later stages; laying the foundation and framing the house are two of the most challenging steps. However, it varies for everyone. Some people have difficulty installing HVAC, plumbing, and electricity, while others find it harder to plan the house and secure the necessary permits. </p></div>

Q: How thick are LVL beams?

• <div><p>The standard thickness for an LVL beam is between <b>1.75 inches and 7 inches</b>. However, you can order LVL beams in non-standard sizes as well. When you work with a contractor, they can source beams that are the appropriate size for your project for you after assessing your blueprints.</p></div>

Q: How high can you build a single brick wall?

• <div><p>A freestanding brick wall that's only one brick thick can usually stand six to eight feet high. If you need a higher wall, it should be at least two bricks thick for adequate stability, and it might require a footing to support the added weight. Additionally, some areas have regulations and codes dictating how high a brick wall can be, so check with local code enforcers to ensure your proposed wall complies with any regulations.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Structural Engineering pros in Otsego, MI

*The Angi rating for Structural Engineering companies in Otsego, 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 Otsego, 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 12, 2025

Reviewed in May 2025
We are so thankful to have a much needed solution to a preexisting issue resulting in water damage to our plaster ceiling. Matt was thoughtful and thorough on his diagnostic of the problem, and the repair work by him and his crew was impeccable !! Warren Builders will always be our go-to...
Warren Builders, Inc.
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Reviewed in January 2023
The guys who did the work (drywall, plaster and painting) from a burst pipe were wonderful. I cannot say enough good about them. I would recommend them to everyone and would hire them again for my projects.
Reyes Builders and Painters
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Reviewed in April 2021
They promised to be here in the morning and got here at noon. But then the project of putting staggered railing in went pretty smoothly. They had to borrow some of our tool as they had forgotten to bring them but the project got done all in one day. They asked me specific questions in order...
M and A Fence and Tree Services, LLC
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Reviewed in March 2019
Kevin was a great engineer for remodeling our basement. He completely built in the basement. Two bedrooms, office, closets, bathroom. Hallway. Painted. Flooring. Paneling, ceiling. Plumbing. Electricity. And added a hearth to fireplace.
Markin Co.
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Reviewed in June 2018
Both the interior and exterior were beautifully detailed. The engine was not included in the proposal.
Great Lakes Chemical Services Inc
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Reviewed in November 2016
My wife and I worked with Jon on an extensive renovation/remodel, and addition. A large, complicated project to say the least. Jon stuck with us through many, many, revisions... The entire time being patient and professional. Jon's expertise and knowledge in structure and engineering helped...
Schultz Architecture
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Reviewed in November 2015
<p>The previous homeowner attempted his own repairs and only made the problems worse. The basic work on resurfacing the flat roof was pretty straightforward. The challenge was to provide drainage without installing gutters. Exposed guttering would have spoiled the look of the house. Their...
MODERN ROOFING INC
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Reviewed in January 2014
Suggestions by builder greatly improved overall design and structure. This is the second project Tom Scheffers has done. The first was adding a bathroom to the first floor and converting the previous bath to a pantry. We have discussed Scheffers building a house for us in the future. Now all we...
Scheffers Construction Co
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Reviewed in April 2013
He came in on-budget and on-time. We call him when we have an issue and his subcontractors are just as dependable. He's got both an engineering and an architectural degree, which makes him worth waiting for, because the structure of the house is just great. He used materials that were...
Hoogstraten Builders Inc
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Reviewed in January 2013
All work was completed in a timely manner (a rare event in my experience <br /> with builders) and was satisfactory in almost all aspects. In <br /> retrospect, however, I should have used someone else for this particular <br /> job. I am very picky about finish; the person who did the finish...
VanDam & Krusinga Building & Restoration
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Find Structural engineers in Otsego

Robert Cowles PE

5.0(

)

Serving Otsego, 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

13 neighbors recently requested a quote

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Foundation Specialist, LLC

4.2(

)

Serving Otsego, 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

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Structural Engineering questions, answered by experts

Yes, all states require structural engineers to carry the proper license, with specifics determined by each state. You can use Angi’s state licensing tool to confirm that the structural engineer you’re considering holds the required licensing to tackle your job. Hiring an unlicensed structural engineer will not only cause issues with permits but it could also lead to an unsafe building. The cost of a professional, licensed, and experienced engineer is well worth the investment.

Absolutely, as it ensures designs are viable and won’t compromise structural integrity.

The early stages of building a house are harder than the later stages; laying the foundation and framing the house are two of the most challenging steps. However, it varies for everyone. Some people have difficulty installing HVAC, plumbing, and electricity, while others find it harder to plan the house and secure the necessary permits.

The standard thickness for an LVL beam is between 1.75 inches and 7 inches. However, you can order LVL beams in non-standard sizes as well. When you work with a contractor, they can source beams that are the appropriate size for your project for you after assessing your blueprints.

A freestanding brick wall that's only one brick thick can usually stand six to eight feet high. If you need a higher wall, it should be at least two bricks thick for adequate stability, and it might require a footing to support the added weight. Additionally, some areas have regulations and codes dictating how high a brick wall can be, so check with local code enforcers to ensure your proposed wall complies with any regulations.

The Otsego, 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

Lyle Hendriks
•
May 5, 2026May 5, 2026
How Much Does Beam Installation Cost [2026 Data]
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Apr 4, 2026Apr 4, 2026
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Who to Hire to Replace a Sill Plate?
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Who Do You Hire to Knock Down a Wall?
Looking to open up your living space and need to remove a wall? Learn who to hire to knock down a wall, whether it's load-bearing or non-load-bearing.