Browse Forums General Discussion 1 Jan 12, 2011 2:54 pm hi Just wondering if someone can help or care to share your opinion. We have a block of land @ inner eastern Melb with a permit to build 2 units. We are at the stage of obtaining structure engineering quotes which we were provided by one from our architect and a couple more by ourselves. (cover the standard, no soil report) The 2 units are around 20sq to 23sq, brick, double stories with single garage. Surprisingly, the quote range from $2000 to $4500. The highest quote came highly recommended by someone who used their services before. We are put off by the high price high however we were told a good structural engineer would save money during construction etc... Sorry if this question has been asked before, I couldn't really find anything directly related. What is a rough quote (eg $xxx per sq?, does suburb matter? etc) Thanks in advance. Re: some question on structural engineering quote 2Jan 12, 2011 3:17 pm My view is that you go with someone who comes with a good reputation rather than the cheapest. When it comes to structural design its cheap and easy to over design components if you as the designer are not worried about paying for the extra materials. It takes time (which costs money) to design economical foundations and structural components which could save you more than the $2500 over the whole build. The Harder You Try - the Luckier You Get ! Web site http://www.anewhouse.com.au Informative, Amusing, and Opinionated Blog - Over 600 posts on all aspects of building a new house. Re: some question on structural engineering quote 3Jan 12, 2011 5:18 pm Dont assume just because you spend more that your build will be cheaper. I suggest you take a good look at your plans and work out the level of difficulty for you project. I build a single storey home, and my engineer only cost me $370. The only real thing that need to be designed was the slab. Assuming you've modelled the TB8, TB10, TB12, TB2 & J1 joists/LVLs there, it appears as per drawing to me. There maybe should be an additional J1 between TB10 and T12 if… 3 31820 Thanks for all replies. I just noticed now the pictures I added to post right on top of page were wrong. I attached pictures showing "current" and my "suggested" floor… 9 14644 |