Do I need to hire a structural engineer for a home inspection?

• <div><p>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. </p></div>

Get matched with top structural engineers in Dorchester County, SC

Q: Do I need to hire a structural engineer for a home inspection?

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

Q: How do various elements of desk design impact the overall assembly cost?

• <div><p>Costs depend on desk size, labor, included features like drawers or motorized height adjustments, and required wall anchoring.</p></div>

Q: How long does a structural assessment typically take?

• <div><p>A few hours for inspection, with a detailed report following in a week.</p></div>

Q: Can I do my own structural calculations?

• <div><p>No, it&rsquo;s not legal for unlicensed individuals to conduct structural calculations for buildings or building repairs. Not only do licensing requirements prevent DIYers from tackling this project, but mistakes can also be extremely dangerous and put your property and anyone inside or near it at risk of severe injury or even death. You should always hire a licensed and certified local structural engineer to make structural calculations.</p></div>

Q: What are the key elements of quality framing work?

• <div><p>Accurate measurements, sturdy materials, and seamless integration with other structures.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Structural Engineering pros in Dorchester County, SC

*The Angi rating for Structural Engineering companies in Dorchester County, SC 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 Dorchester County, SC 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 April 21, 2026

Reviewed in April 2026
PCM CONSTRUCTION LLC. Exceptional work and design options with a fair price! My project was $3500 less than Palmetto Landscaping and Designs, LLC in Summerville quoted me. Israel, the owner, was timely in all communications and completed my entire patio paver project in 2 days. Highly...
PCM Construction
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Reviewed in August 2023
I do higher-end remodeling and resale for a living. Sometimes I need to sub projects out. I am glad that I used Hammer. The price was fair and the work was "professionally" completed by installers who were well experienced and knowledgeable in their craft (Greg and Abram). I've not experienced...
Hammer Remodeling
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Reviewed in September 2021
It went fine, he did very good job, got it done in a timely manner and he was very good. I would highly recommend him, because he make sense more than the other structural engineers that I have talked to, he was very thorough with his work.
HENRY N SHEPARD II PE
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Reviewed in June 2021
Arian from A&GJ Construction is friendly, timely and very professional. He explained the process and gave me a quote quickly. He was able to complete the project in less than a week. I will definitely call on his professional services again if needed.
A&GJ Construction
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Reviewed in May 2020
Let's say wow, fantastic, great and a whole lot more wonderful things you can say about Greg and D. The fence structure is beautiful ❤️ it has been made with care, precision, experience, and efficiency. They have been very welcoming, kind and encourage us to be apart of the project by putting...
Charleston Creative Fences +
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Reviewed in January 2020
complete failure. They replaced the engine with refurbished engine when he sold me on a new engine. billed me for pieces that were suppose to be replaced and in reality, took pieces from old engine and put them back on. When discussed with owner, he said bubba, just bring it back and ill look at...
R W'S Automotive
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Reviewed in March 2019
Had to make a few adjustments because of structure issues and space. End product looks great. Finished job ahead of schedule with no problems.
Evangeline Construction
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Reviewed in March 2018
Mr. Shepard was just excellent to work with on this first stage of a structural project in our community. He was in contact with me within minutes of making my request on Home Advisor. We quickly set up a meeting for the survey, he answered our questions during the process and the turn-around...
Henry N Shepard, II, PE
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Reviewed in August 2015
It is my opinion that AAA Fence Company did an inadequate job designing and erecting my fence, and despite paying over seven thousand dollars, it is leaning in places. I tried for quite a while to get someone to come out and assess it. Two men did come out, and they were clear about the issue:...
AAA Fence Company of Charleston
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Reviewed in April 2015
I was looking for someone to build a pergola over a plain concrete patio in our backyard as an anniversary present. I had some idea of what I wanted but wasn't quite sure of the constructability of what I had in mind. I found Benjamin of Homevade Contracting on Angie's List and decided to call....
HOMEVADE LLC
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Find Structural engineers in Dorchester County

Henry N Shepard, II, PE

4.6(

)

Serving Dorchester County, SC and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 1993

Free estimates

Customers say: True professional

"Henry was simply AWESOME! Very quick to respond and was able to meet a very quick turn around time frame. He was very professional and thorough. I highly recommend Henry for all structural engineering needs."

Response time2 days

21 neighbors recently requested a quote

Recommended by93%of homeowners

Serving Dorchester County, SC and surrounding areas

In business since 2003

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

"All work was completed as expected. Costs were reasonable and as expected. Bid came in better than competitor."

+270

Recommended by84%of homeowners

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Family Safe Southeast

5.0(

)

Serving Dorchester County, SC and surrounding areas

In business since 2011

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

"Saw display at home and garden show. Researched product and company, then ordered 4X4 shelter via telephone. Company provided additional details about testing and certification IAW FEMA standards upon request. Delivery and installation were on time and as promised."

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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Arthur Engineering LLC

New to Angi

Serving Dorchester County, SC and surrounding areas

In business since 2000

Free estimates

Offers commercial services

Customer satisfaction is what determines our success, which is why we take a hands-on approach. When interacting with our company, you'll notice that we're particularly focused on the principles of quality workmanship, timely completion, competitive pricing and integrity in all our business dealings. We combine knowledge and research with our extensive practical experience to ensure a specialized approach for your project needs. Contact us today for a fair and accurate estimate of your project. We look forward to adding you to our long and growing list of happy customers.\n

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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.

Costs depend on desk size, labor, included features like drawers or motorized height adjustments, and required wall anchoring.

A few hours for inspection, with a detailed report following in a week.

No, it’s not legal for unlicensed individuals to conduct structural calculations for buildings or building repairs. Not only do licensing requirements prevent DIYers from tackling this project, but mistakes can also be extremely dangerous and put your property and anyone inside or near it at risk of severe injury or even death. You should always hire a licensed and certified local structural engineer to make structural calculations.

Accurate measurements, sturdy materials, and seamless integration with other structures.

The Dorchester County, SC 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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Before removing a wall, make sure it’s not load-bearing. Learn the benefits of hiring a structural engineer to check if a wall is load-bearing.
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•
May 2, 2026May 2, 2026
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•
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What is an LVL beam? Read about LVL beams to determine if this material is safe and suitable for your project.