How it works
From first enquiry to drawings you can lodge
No office visits, no site visits, no waiting weeks for a quote. Here is exactly what happens, in order.
Step 1
Tell us what you’re building
Use the quote form, or for sheds and standard patios, design it in 3D with our shed tool or patio tool. We need the size, the site address and anything you already have: sketches, kit brochures, photos, architectural plans or the letter from council. Please give the maximum dimensions you want quoted. Increasing them later may require a revised quote.
Step 2
Review your scope and fixed fee
We review every enquiry and reply by email with exactly what the engineering covers and what it costs. Standard sheds and patios have a calculated fee. Existing structures, unusual layouts, house extensions and commercial projects are reviewed by an engineer first, so the fee is confirmed rather than guessed. Nothing to pay at this stage.
Step 3
Accept and pay
Reply to accept, and we send an invoice. Engineering starts once payment is received. If we need more information, for example a soil report or a clearer sketch, we ask for it now so the design is right first time.
Step 4
Receive your engineering drawings
Your stamped A3 drawings arrive by email as a PDF: plans, sections, elevations, member sizes, footings, connections and any certificates your state requires. Most standard projects are delivered within one to two weeks of payment; tell us if you are on a deadline.
Step 5
Lodge with council or your certifier
You (or your builder or draftsperson) lodge the application. If council or the certifier has a question about our engineering, forward it to us and we answer it. Revisions needed to satisfy their questions about our engineering are at no extra charge.
What is and isn’t included
Included
- Structural design and stamped drawings
- Design to the NCC and Australian Standards for your site
- Certificates your state requires for structural design
- Responses to council or certifier questions about our engineering
Arranged separately
Materials and kits, fabrication and construction, site visits and inspections, soil testing, surveying, energy or bushfire assessments, and lodging the application. We tell you what to organise so nothing holds up your approval.
Common questions
How much does engineering cost?
Standard patio engineering starts at $990 including GST. Sheds are quoted to size, location and construction type. Everything else is quoted individually. You always see the fixed fee before you commit. Our article on what structural engineers cost explains what drives the price.
Can I change the design after the quote?
Yes, before engineering starts. Once drawings are in progress, significant changes may need a revised fee, and we will tell you before doing extra work.
Do you deal with council for me?
We answer council’s questions about our engineering directly, but we do not lodge or manage the application. Your builder, draftsperson or you handle lodgement.
Where do you work?
Every state and territory. In SA, sheds and patios only. House extensions and new dwellings are WA only.
What are you planning?
Send us your project details and take the next step. No payment to request a quote.