What is a Structural Engineer?

A Structural Engineer is a qualified professional who designs and certifies the structural components of your build — such as slabs, framing, retaining walls, footings, and roof structures — to ensure the building is safe, compliant, and durable.

What does a Structural Engineer do?

Your Structural Engineer will complete works according to your agreed scope of works.


Typically, a Structural Engineer will:

  • Review your architectural plans and site conditions
  • Design structural systems (slabs, beams, columns, frames, retaining walls, etc.)
  • Produce detailed structural drawings and engineering specifications
  • Provide calculations to support council and certifier approvals
  • Issue a 126 Certificate (Certificate of Compliance) to certify that the structural design meets relevant codes and standards


They ensure your project is structurally sound, council-compliant, and ready for the next steps in construction.

Barry's Toolbox

If you’re aiming to save on construction costs, talk to your engineer about value engineering early — a smart design tweak now can avoid expensive over-engineering!

What to look for in a Structural Engineer

When reviewing quotes, look for:

  • Accreditation: Must be a Chartered Professional Engineer (CPEng) or registered in your state (e.g., RPEQ in QLD, NER or equivalent nationally).
  • Experience: Look for engineers who specialise in residential work — houses, townhouses, or small developments.
  • Detailing: Good engineers produce practical designs that are clear and easy for builders to follow.
  • Speed: Ask about typical turnaround times for initial designs and revisions.
  • Council knowledge: Familiarity with local council requirements and approval processes is a bonus.

Before You Begin: What You’ll Need Ready

To get quotes from Structural Engineers for your Structural Design & 126 Certificate, you’ll need:

  • Site address and survey plan
  • Architectural drawings (floor plans, elevations, sections)
  • Soil classification report (e.g., Site Classification Report AS2870)
  • Details of any proposed retaining walls or special structures
  • Your project timeline (especially when you need structural certification)

Average Timeframe

For this task, Pros typically provide quotes within 3-5 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

  • What is a 126 Certificate?

    A 126 Certificate (Certificate of Compliance - Design) is issued by a Structural Engineer to confirm that the structural design complies with the Building Code of Australia (BCA) and relevant standards.

  • Do I need a Structural Engineer if my builder has standard designs?

    Yes. Even standard designs need site-specific certification to suit your soil type, site conditions, and council requirements.

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.