Hamilton Structural Engineers Blog

Expert insights and practical guidance on residential structural engineering, including renovations, inspections, foundations, and code compliance.

What Is An Engineer's Letter And When Is It Enough For A Hamilton Permit?

An engineer's letter answers a defined technical question; it does not replace every permit document.

A seal identifies engineering responsibility; the drawings still need a clear project scope.

Addition drawings should describe the complete load path and coordinate with site and architectural plans.

Age and neighbourhood cannot prove capacity. A second-floor decision needs house-specific evidence.

A second storey adds a new load path through the whole bungalow, from roof to existing foundations.

Rear additions need coordinated support from new foundations through the opening into the existing house.