Frequently Asked Questions

We offer a full range of structural engineering services including basements and substructure design, structural design and reports, renovations and extensions, loft conversions, temporary works design, steel connections design and fabrication drawings, building defects and repair solutions, building regulations submissions, and end-to-end project management — all from our Enfield office serving London and the South-East.

Yes, in most cases. A structural engineer is required to design the new steel beam arrangements, assess the existing roof structure and floor capacity, and produce drawings and calculations for Building Regulations approval. HGI Structures handle the full structural package for loft conversions including dormer windows, hip-to-gable conversions, and mansard roofs.

Yes. Most extensions require Building Regulations approval regardless of whether planning permission is also needed. We prepare and submit full structural Building Regulations packages on your behalf, coordinate with Building Control, and provide sign-off documentation at all key stages.

An architect focuses on the design, layout, and appearance of a building. A structural engineer ensures the building is safe, stable, and structurally sound — designing the beams, columns, foundations, and load paths. Most projects require both: the architect produces planning drawings and the structural engineer produces the calculations and construction drawings for Building Regulations.

Turnaround time depends on project complexity. A straightforward residential report (e.g. a steel beam for a wall removal) typically takes 3–5 working days. Larger or more complex projects such as basement designs or commercial work may take 2–4 weeks. We always agree a programme with you at the outset.

Fees vary depending on the scope and complexity of the project. We offer free initial consultations and competitive fixed-fee quotes. Residential projects such as loft conversions or single-beam calculations start from a few hundred pounds; larger commercial or basement projects are quoted individually. Contact us for a no-obligation estimate.

We are based in Enfield and serve London and the South-East including North London (Camden, Islington, Hackney, Hampstead, Haringey), the City of London, Westminster, Kensington, Chelsea, Hammersmith, Fulham, South London (Clapham, Balham, Wimbledon, Richmond), Essex, Hertfordshire, Surrey, Kent, and further afield including Reading, Oxford, and High Wycombe.

A basement design typically includes an assessment of existing foundations, geotechnical investigation, design of new retaining walls and waterproofing strategy, temporary works design for the excavation phase, and structural calculations for the basement slab and walls. We work with experienced waterproofing contractors and coordinate the full design package.

Yes. We carry out structural inspections to investigate and diagnose defects such as cracking, settlement, subsidence, corrosion of reinforcement, and deterioration of masonry or concrete. We then produce a report with repair recommendations and, where required, full structural repair drawings for Building Regulations.

Simply contact us by phone on 02037454835, mobile/WhatsApp on 07810406669, or email info@hgi-structures.co.uk. We offer a free initial consultation to discuss your project, understand your requirements, and provide a fee quote — with no obligation.