Response to two questions I have observed, in multiple locations, about storm damaged homes. "Do I need a Structural Engineer?" and “Who do I need?” This is for NC only!!!
In most cases it isn't likely that you need a Structural Engineer and to bring them in first may be a waste of time and resources. What you need first, ideally, is a licensed NC Home Inspector and/or a licensed NC Building Contractor. I am biased as I am a licensed NC Home Inspector (available for this) and was a Licensed Building Contractor. Here is the clincher. If you have minor damage a qualified unlicensed person can do, as of October 1st 2024, up to $40,000 of work without a license in NC. If you can find and verify a “qualified person”, and there are many, you may save money not using a license NC Building Contractor. Let’s be straight forward and honest, truth is that the Licensed Building Contractor will likely use those unlicensed trade folk to do their work as they will not likely be doing it themselves and will be “marking it up” when they invoice you. Sorry Engineer’s and Building Contractors, to make you angry, but simply stating the obvious. I personally use qualified unlicensed trades people without issue and would for this. These “licensed guys” will have their hands full doing the work above $40,000 which requires their license so they will get over it quick. Prior to this event I was told many of these guys, in these areas, are backup with two years of work.
A structural engineer should be brought is under the direction of a Home Inspector, Contractor or qualified trades person as may be needed. Replacement work and repairs are REQUIRED to meet current NC codes. Here is a shocker for you. If the repair work exceeds 50% of the overall value of the home (unless something has changed, I am not aware of) everything in the home must be brought up to NC code standards.
Irrelevant of who does the work, including yourself, if it involves structural repairs (including decks), electrical, plumbing or heating and air condition a permit and inspections are required and the electrical, plumbing and HVAC is required to be completed by a contractor holding those appropriate license.
Hope this is helpful information for you. If you have questions about this or other issues email me Chris Hilton at chris@chrisdhilton.com Looking for me? Simply Google Chris D Hilton.
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