Structural Engineer Services for House Extensions
Planning a house extension you will need a structural engineer to make sure it is safe approved and built properly. At Kirkwood we provide structural engineering as part of our full design service for homeowners in Essex. We handle everything from steel calculations to building control so your project can move forward without delays or costly mistakes.
Why You Need a Structural Engineer for Your Extension
A structural engineer is required for almost all house extensions to make sure the new structure is safe and built to last. Their role is to protect the structural integrity of the extension itself. This includes calculating the right size for steel beams, designing foundations, checking soil conditions, and assessing nearby trees that might affect the ground.
Structural calculations and structural drawings are a key part of the process. They show how the new build will be supported and how loads will be distributed. These details are needed for building control approval and to guide both your architect and builder through the project. If you’re also removing interior walls or altering the existing house, a structural engineer will be needed for that work too.
What Does a Structural Engineer Do for a House Extension
A structural engineer looks at the parts of your house extension that hold weight like walls beams floors and foundations. They work out the loads, steel beams and make sure everything is strong enough and meets building control rules. At Kirkwood our engineers design the structure to suit your extension plans so the layout and support work together. We work closely with our architectural design team so every part of the project fits as one.
Structural Calculations for Building Control Approval
Structural calculations are needed for almost all house extensions especially if you are removing a load bearing wall, adding steel beams, a roof or foundations. These calculations show how the structure will stay safe and stable. Building control will ask to see them before work starts so having them done in advanced is important. Our structural engineers prepare all the calculations you need as part of your drawings. This keeps everything clear and avoids delays during the build.
What Affects the Cost of a Structural Engineer for an Extension
The cost of a structural engineer for an extension is based on the complexity of the design and the level of structural work required. Key factors include the size of the extension, the number of beams or supports needed, foundation design, and whether calculations are needed for load bearing walls or other structural changes. Most projects require both structural drawings and calculations for building control approval. We offer fixed quotes so you know what’s included from the beginning, with no hidden extras.
Residential and Home Structural Engineering Services
We only work on residential projects and specialise in structural engineering for house extensions such as single story extensions, double story extensions, garage conversions and loft conversions. This includes load bearing walls, steel beams, new foundations and roof structures. Every home is different so we tailor the calculations and drawings to suit your space. Our service is built for homeowners who want clear advice and expert support from start to finish.
Structural Engineer Services in Essex
We provide structural engineer services across Essex for homeowners planning house extensions and renovations. If your project is in Chelmsford, Brentwood, Billericay, Rayleigh, Southend, Leigh on Sea, or any nearby area, we can help. Our team knows what local building control officers expect, so your structural drawings and calculations are more likely to be approved without problems. We are based in Essex and cover Hornchurch, Benfleet, Wickford, Basildon, Grays, and Maldon, and only work on residential properties.
What’s Included in Our Structural Engineering Services
Our structural engineering services cover everything needed for a safe and approved house extension. This includes structural calculations, drawings for building control, and advice on load bearing walls, beams, and foundation design including piled foundations. We make sure your extension is fully supported and ready for approval. If you’re working with Kirkwood, we provide both architectural design and structural engineering under one roof, so nothing is missed.
Ready to start your home extension in Brentwood?
If you’re planning a house extension and want the structure designed correctly from the start get in touch with us. We provide structural calculations drawings and advice for all types of residential projects including loft conversions garage conversions and single or double storey extensions. Our team works across Essex and can help you meet building control requirements avoid delays and move forward with confidence. We’re here to guide you through every step.
Get in touch by emailing info@kirkwoodbuild.co.uk or phoning 01268 944233 to schedule a free consultation. Let’s turn your ideas into a well-designed, approved, and beautifully planned extension.
Kirkwood articles: Expert home extension & architectural design insights
Frequently asked questions
-
Do I need a structural engineer for my house extension?
Yes. A structural engineer ensures your extension is safe, stable, and complies with building regulations. They provide structural calculations that builders and local authorities require, especially if you're removing load-bearing walls or altering the roof.
-
Does my house extension need piling?
Piling is usually needed if your soil has poor load-bearing capacity or the extension is large and heavy. A structural engineer will assess your ground conditions and design suitable foundations to prevent future movement or cracking.
-
What does a structural engineer do for house extensions?
Structural engineers design the load-bearing elements of your extension, such as foundations, beams, floors, and roof structures. They produce the structural calculations and drawings needed to get building regulation approval and to guide your builder.
-
How much do structural engineering calculations cost in 2025?
Structural calculations for a typical house extension in 2025 cost between £900 and £2,000, depending on the complexity and final design. Larger or more complex projects—such as double storey extensions or those requiring significant structural changes—will cost more.
Areas We Cover in Essex
We’re proud to help homeowners all across Essex. Some of the areas we serve include: