The mention of a civil engineer brings up connotations of commercial work environments and nothing much about residential civil works. However, times are changing and homeowners are striving to safe every cent while at the same time doing all they can to enhance the value of their homes. While it is understandable that at times you may decide to undertake some of your home's projects yourself, one thing you ought to realise is that when doing certain home additions and improvement projects, you may need to hire a professional civil engineer. Some local, state, and federal agencies demand that you furnish them with detailed plans which can only be put together by a licensed professional. Instead of starting the project yourself and then bringing in a civil engineer midway when you run into problems, it pays to bring them in at the earliest possible stage. The following are some of the instances you may need the technical advice and support of a civil engineer.
Permits and Plot Plans
Plot plans help in determining property easements, improvements, and utility location. An engineer can help you in developing these plans together with drainage analysis and construction staking. If you allow them, they can go ahead to seek the approvals and necessary permits to commence the construction.
Septic and Sewer Projects
Civil engineers are trained to handle the designing of the various types of septic disposal systems both onsite and offsite. Depending on your locality, you may be required to adhere to certain standards by the health department when renovating or designing new sewer systems.
Drainage Apart from the septic system design, civil engineers come in handy when redesigning or planning storm water drainage on your property. Normally, the engineer will perform a comprehensive inspection to find out the options you have before settling on the optimal approach to diminish the existing drainage problem or pre-empt one from occurring.
Zoning and Building Code Research
Civil engineers have the advantage of continuously working on projects in different jurisdictions. Because of this, their depth of knowledge of zoning and building codes ordinances is commendable. They can give you detailed information which will go a long way in keeping your building project in compliance and ensuring the right procedures are followed. When putting up structures such as patio enclosures, moving interior walls, storage shades, and carports, you will be required to fill in permitting applications which oftentimes involves a lot of forms and processes. Civil engineers will not only assist you in the permitting processes, but may also represent you in meetings where necessary.
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