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 Surfside Beach, SC

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: 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>

Q: What qualifications should a structural engineer have?

• <div><p>Proper licensing and experience in residential and commercial structural projects.</p></div>

Q: How do I know if cracks are structural?

• <div><p>The best way to determine if ceiling cracks are structural is to hire a ceiling contractor to inspect the cracks and provide a professional opinion. That said, you might be able to make an educated guess based on the size and appearance of the crack. Larger cracks, cracks accompanied by sagging or discoloration, and cracks that travel from the ceiling down the walls are all signs of structural issues.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Structural Engineering pros in Surfside Beach, SC

*The Angi rating for Structural Engineering companies in Surfside Beach, 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 Surfside Beach, 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 July 01, 2025

Reviewed in July 2025
We were so pleased, great company to deal with! Matter of fact, we’re hiring them again within the next few months. We had an engineer out of Wilmington tell us it was some of the prettiest concrete he had ever seen if not the prettiest in his 40 yrs of work, he was even more impressed when he...
Tracy Norman Concrete
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Reviewed in March 2025
On Friday, 3/14, I downloaded the Angi app (this is my first time using Angi) to hire someone who can install barn doors and put up ceiling molding in a small (about 10 x 10 kitchen area) as we wanted a professional to do the work. This was something I wanted to do for my Mom, so she didn t feel...
Paradise Handyman Services
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Reviewed in November 2023
I recently had the privilege of working with Aries Construction (DBA Aries Custom Homes) to bring my dream home to life. From start to finish, the experience has been nothing short of exceptional. Right from our initial consultation, it was evident that Aries Construction (DBA Aries Custom...
Aries Construction Management, LLC
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Reviewed in April 2023
Tom is a true engineer type. He will build you a pool that will last for years. Quality of work is top notch. Lots can be done wrong or not up to standards but Tom's standards are high. Do it right the first time, hire Tom!!!
Buildgreen Industries, LLC
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Reviewed in March 2021
We are so happy with our new floor! LVP over existing engineered wood. The process from start to finish was quick & efficient. Samuel & the team were very friendly, reliable & professional. We will definitely use them for future projects. Excellent service!
International Flooring, LLC
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Reviewed in December 2020
It went exceptional!!! Tom and Cindy worked together in directing the engineering layout, time and materials, and full installation. The job turned out just as quoted and was beautiful. A great company to have your projects done and done right.
Mastrand Custom Decks
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Reviewed in August 2020
Kevin and his son Alex built a beautiful 12 x 30 Pergola for us and we couldnâ t be happier with the results. The craftsmanship is superb and the structure is superior to anything the well known exterior vendors quoted,, and a third of the price!a We are the envy of the neighborhood! Thinking...
Performance Home Services, LLC
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Reviewed in October 2019
Mr. Miller was prompt and professional. He performed a structural inspection I needed for a closing. I would highly recommend him.
Gary J. Miller
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Reviewed in February 2019
I found Express Electrical through home advisor. It wasn't five minutes after I accepted their request when their office called me and set up an appointment for the next business day which was a Monday with a "show up" window. The tech, Walker , called 1/2 hour to let me know he was...
Express Electrical Services
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Reviewed in October 2017
He was extremely professional, his work exceeded my expectations, and his pricing was fair. He is knowledgeable about all phases of the building trade including electrical, plumbing, deck, and structural improvements. Don't hesitate to give him your business hes very honest. Learn more at...
658 Belair Home Improvement
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Find Structural engineers in Surfside Beach

CNT Foundations

4.5(

)

Serving Surfside Beach, 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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Sears Home Improvement Products

3.7(

1,712

)

Serving Surfside Beach, SC and surrounding areas

In business since 1886

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

"I had to have them back out and redo the tile. We've already replaced the nuts and bolts in the drawers that were falling out."

Recommended by74%of homeowners

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Structural Pros Foundation and Crawl Space Repair

New to Angi

Serving Surfside Beach, SC and surrounding areas

In business since 1992

Emergency services offered

We return phone calls, keep appointments and complete jobs in a timely professional manner. All our work 100% guaranteed.

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Coastal River Technologies

New to Angi

Serving Surfside Beach, SC and surrounding areas

In business since 1993

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

with over 18 years of experience in the industry, american society hvac engineers isnt it time to do more with what youve got

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Harry's Construction

New to Angi

Serving Surfside Beach, SC and surrounding areas

We are small hometown construction company that prides ourselves on discipline and consistency. We offer top-notch professionalism in the field of land clearing grading.\n And annual maintenance was field or buildings. We are skilled in pressure, washing yard, cleaning, hauling off material, bringing material back Busch hogging ditch digging and stump removais is our expertise. We offer the best prices flexible understandable and we will work with those that are willing to work with us .

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Structural Engineering questions, answered by experts

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.

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

Proper licensing and experience in residential and commercial structural projects.

The best way to determine if ceiling cracks are structural is to hire a ceiling contractor to inspect the cracks and provide a professional opinion. That said, you might be able to make an educated guess based on the size and appearance of the crack. Larger cracks, cracks accompanied by sagging or discoloration, and cracks that travel from the ceiling down the walls are all signs of structural issues.

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 Surfside Beach, 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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How Much Does It Cost to Replace a Main House Support Beam? [2026 Data]
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How Much Does Beam Installation Cost [2026 Data]
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Structural Steel Beam vs. Wood Beam: Which Is Right for You?
Structural steel and wood beams ensure your house is structurally sound. Learn the difference between steel and wood beams and how to choose the right one.
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Structural Inspection vs. Home Inspection: Which Is Right for You?
Knowing the difference between structural inspections vs. home inspections is easy with this convenient guide. Learn when you might get each one done.