Do I Need a Structural Engineer for a Remodel?

Remodeling a home in the Twin Cities can be an exciting step toward creating a space that truly fits your lifestyle. Whether you’re opening up a floor plan, adding or finishing a basement, adding onto your home, one common question comes up early in the process: do I need a structural engineer for a remodel? The answer often depends on how your project affects the structure of your home, and understanding that early can save you time, money, and stress.

When a Structural Engineer Is Needed for a Remodel

You typically need a structural engineer anytime a remodel impacts the “bones” of the house. This includes projects that change how loads are supported or transferred through the structure.

Common situations include:

• Removing or modifying load-bearing walls

• Enlarging door or window openings

• Adding a second story or home addition

• Finishing basements that require new beams or columns

• Correcting sagging floors or cracked walls

• Converting attics or garages into living space

In these cases, a structural engineer evaluates how your home carries weight and designs safe solutions that meet Minnesota building codes.

Why Skipping Engineering Can Be Risky

Homeowners sometimes assume a contractor can “figure it out,” but structural changes done without engineering can lead to serious issues. Improper beam sizing, unsupported spans, or missed load paths may result in cracked drywall, uneven floors, or long-term structural damage. In the Twin Cities, failed inspections can also delay permits and increase project costs.

How a Structural Engineer Helps Your Remodel

A structural engineer works behind the scenes to make sure your remodel is safe, buildable, and compliant. They collaborate with homeowners, contractors, and architects to:

• Identify load-bearing walls and structural elements

• Design beams, headers, and reinforcements

• Provide stamped plans required for permits

• Reduce overbuilding that drives up construction costs

• Address existing structural concerns uncovered during remodeling

This guidance is especially valuable in older Twin Cities homes, where framing methods and materials can vary widely.

Remodeling with Confidence in the Twin Cities

Working with a local engineering firm familiar with Minnesota state, county and city codes, and soil conditions makes a real difference. Avail Engineering LLC supports homeowners throughout the remodeling process by providing clear structural evaluations, practical designs, and permit-ready plans that keep projects moving forward. From small wall removals to complex renovations, having an engineer involved early helps prevent surprises during construction.

Remodeling Structural Engineer

If your remodel involves more than cosmetic changes, hiring a structural engineer is often not just recommended, it’s essential for safety, code compliance, and long-term peace of mind. By getting professional input upfront, you protect your investment and ensure your remodel is built to last. Before you start knocking down walls, wouldn’t it make sense to know for sure that your home’s structure is ready for the change by getting a structural inspection?