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>

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Verified Reviews for Structural Engineering pros in Portsmouth, VA

*The Angi rating for Structural Engineering companies in Portsmouth, VA 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 Portsmouth, VA 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 February 13, 2025

Reviewed in February 2025
Wayne was superb and thorough in how he inspected our future retirement home, in Jesup. Detail-oriented, knows the code and how it applies to material discrepancies, and will guide you through potential costs to repair/replace/upgrade areas of your structures that may need some TLC. Got my vote...
Preferred Home & Property Inspections
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Reviewed in December 2023
I have worked with Mark for roughly 10 years. He is critical in helping answer structural questions and providing engineering services for engineered wood products for our building supply company. He is very knowledgeable and thorough in his work and has been one of the best engineers I have...
Bartel Engineering, LLC
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Reviewed in March 2022
Thanks to Michael who came out and gave me a quote for the job. Thanks to Stefan, Floyd and Alex W for the install of the push piers. Another company quoted me north of 15k for the job. I hired a Structural Engineer who told me I did not need all the services they were offering. I went to Bay...
BAY Crawl Space & Foundation Repair
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Reviewed in June 2021
Aaron Morris is highly reliable, professional, and knowledgeable. Had several low spots in the backyard and particularly the corners of the yard with pools of water that would not easily dry out. With the engineering suggested by Aaron, his team installed 11 basins controlling the excess water...
GUARANTEED GREENER GRASS & SECOND NATURE LANDSCAPE
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Reviewed in February 2021
They were very helpful and understanding. I had to rent a car for the whole time that I was waiting for the engine to be ordered and installed which was a a hefty amount. They gave me a credit on my bill to help offset the cost of the rental which of course they did not have to do. After the...
Automotive Authority
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Reviewed in December 2020
Hilltop handled my project with exceptional professionalism, including when decisions had to be made to how the tree would be removed (how the decisions impacted other structures in my yard). They did not make assumptions for what I wanted but rather were partners. Their work also exceeded what...
Hilltop Tree Service and Landscaping LLC
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Reviewed in February 2020
Tyler was great. He took ample time to look and explain what I needed to do for my project. Sent clear written direction at a very fair price. I would recommend him for any project that requires a structural engineer.
Best Roofing Of Virginia
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Structural Engineering questions, answered by experts

Structural engineers are necessary for projects involving alterations to load-bearing structures, foundation work, and compliance with safety standards. This includes home expansions, retaining walls, and significant repairs that impact a property's integrity.

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.

Yes, unresolved damage can decrease property integrity and market value.

It's safe to assume that all exterior walls are load-bearing, or at least have load-bearing characteristics. Some older homes feature porches or bump-outs that don't rest on the home's foundation. However, they still must carry the weight of the roof section they support. Walls containing floor-to-ceiling glass or other non-structural elements must use post and beam configurations to meet load-bearing criteria.

Signs of structural damage include foundation cracks, roof leaks, bouncy floors, crumbling concrete, and cracked or leaning chimneys. Structural damage can make itself apparent in various ways, and sometimes, there may not be obvious signs. Inspect your foundation and roof annually to stay ahead of potentially serious structural problems.

The Portsmouth, VA homeowners’ guide to structural engineering services

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