What is a Structural Engineer?

A Structural Engineer is a qualified professional who designs and certifies the structural elements of your build — including your steel frame and roof truss system. They ensure your structure complies with the National Construction Code (NCC) and is safe, stable, and appropriate for Queensland conditions such as wind classification and soil type.

What does a Structural Engineer do?

Your engineer will complete works according to your agreed scope of works.

Typically, a Structural Engineer will:

  • Review your architectural plans and site classification
  • Design the steel frame and roof truss layout
  • Ensure the design meets structural and wind load requirements (e.g. N1–N4 in QLD)
  • Provide a Form 15 Design Certificate for use in your Building Approval
  • Coordinate with your frame supplier and certifier if needed


In Queensland, engineering is mandatory for any structural steel frame installation and must be submitted to your Private Certifier as part of your documentation.

Tip: Confirm Steel Frame Lead Times Early

Steel framing is often made to order, so lead times can vary. Confirm manufacturing and delivery timeframes early to avoid delays — especially if your slab or other trades are scheduled tightly around frame install.

What to look for in a Structural Engineer

Look for someone who:

  • Is registered with the Board of Professional Engineers of Queensland (RPEQ)
  • Has experience with steel frame homes and residential wind classifications
  • Understands local soil and site conditions
  • Communicates clearly with suppliers, certifiers, and owner builders
  • Provides timely documentation, including the required Form 15

Before You Begin: What You’ll Need Ready

To request quotes for steel frame and truss engineering in Queensland, you’ll need:

  • Final architectural and layout plans
  • Your soil test (site classification)
  • Any preferred frame supplier details (if known)
  • Roof design, including pitch and overhangs
  • Any council or certifier notes related to wind classification or BAL rating

Average Timeframe

For this task, Pros typically provide quotes within 7-10 business days.

When Can I Expect Quotes?

Timeframes often vary based on demand and the type of Pro you're engaging (e.g. a plumber). If additional communication or clarification is needed is needed, the quoting process may take longer.

 

Don't be alarmed if you don't receive quotes or communication from any Build Buddy Pros straight away. Some work is more complex and the Pro may need time to comprehend your documents or scope of work. Depending on the job, there may even be some work required by the Pro before they are able to quote (e.g. a site visit might be required).

 

If the average timeframe indicated here has passed, and you have not received any messages or quotes, please feel free to contact the Build Buddy Expert Guidance and Support team for an update on quoting for this task.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Is engineering mandatory in Queensland for steel frames?

    Yes. You must provide a certified Form 15 Design Certificate from a qualified structural engineer as part of your Building Approval.

  • What is a Form 15?

    Form 15 is a standard QLD certificate confirming that a design complies with relevant codes and standards. It’s submitted to your Private Certifier during approval.

  • What if I’m using timber trusses and steel wall frames?

    You’ll still need engineering for both systems. Your structural engineer will certify that the hybrid design works together safely.

How to Complete this Task?

STEP 1

Review and Adjust the Scope of Works

Timeframes may vary based on demand and the type of Pro you're engaging (e.g., a plumber). If additional communication or clarification is needed, the quoting process may take longer.

STEP 2

Confirm Required Documents Are Uploaded

Check that the following required document(s) are uploaded for this task. These are essential to proceed:

STEP 3

Update the Quality Assurance Checklist

Go to the Quality Assurance tab in this task and review the checklist. Edit any details to suit your project requirements. Being clear and upfront helps set expectations with the Pro. Updating the checklist before requesting quotes ensures everyone is aligned.

STEP 4

Request Quotes

Click the orange ‘Request Quotes’ button to start the quoting process.

STEP 5

Review the Quotes

Once you receive quotes:

  • Review each one carefully, including the payment schedule and any special terms
  • Download attached quote documents for detailed review
  • Check each Pro’s profile and read past client reviews

STEP 6

Communicate with the Pro

If needed, message or call the Pro to clarify details or negotiate terms.

STEP 7

Accept a Quote

Choose the quote that best suits your needs. Once you accept a quote, any other pending quotes will be automatically declined. An agreement will automatically be generated.

STEP 8

Complete the Tasks In Your App

New tasks will appear to guide you through this job — follow each step carefully. Make sure to use the Quality Assurance Checklist, and refer to your contract and final Scope of Works whenever needed.

NEED HELP?

Reach Out to Your Build Buddy Pro

If you have any questions or need a hand, your Build Buddy Pro is your best first contact. They’re a licensed expert in their field and can understand the ins and outs of your project. You can message them via the platform, or you can call them directly.


If you have already contacted your Build Buddy Pro and still need further assistance, the Build Buddy Expert Guidance and Support team are here to help. They will be able to guide you on your next steps or help you find answers to any questions you may have.