Structural & systems · Glossary
Structural engineer
Also called: SE
A structural engineer is a licensed professional who designs and certifies the load-bearing system of a building. Renovations that open a load-bearing wall, add a second story, build an ADU, or change the seismic load path require structural engineering plans stamped and signed by a licensed SE.
Why this matters for renovation projects
Structural engineer shows up on permits, contracts, or estimates that Renology covers across LA, San Diego, San Francisco, Seattle, Portland, and Denver. Most homeowners encounter the term once a project is already mid-flight, when there is no time to learn its mechanics without slowing the contractor. Knowing what it means before signing the contract is the difference between a clean project and an avoidable surprise. For how Renology calibrates cost ranges against permit valuations and contractor invoices, see the methodology.