Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Civil Engineer
A short interview tells you whether an engineer has done your kind of project in your jurisdiction and exactly what their fee covers. These questions help you compare proposals on more than price.
Qualifications and experience
Are you licensed as a PE in this state, and is your firm registered to offer engineering here? Verify the answer on the state board website. Ask who will actually do the work and who will seal the drawings.
Have you done this type of project in this city or county recently? Local experience matters because stormwater, grading and septic rules vary widely and reviewers have their own expectations. Ask for one or two references or examples.
Scope and deliverables
What exactly is included? A good proposal lists deliverables (for example a sealed site plan, drainage calculations, permit applications), what information you must supply (survey, geotechnical report, architectural plans) and what is excluded.
How many rounds of review comments are included? Permit reviews often produce comments that require revisions. Ask how additional revisions are billed. Ask whether construction phase services such as site observation or final certification are included, since many jurisdictions require an engineer's certification before final approval.
Fees, schedule and insurance
Is the fee fixed, hourly or hourly with a not-to-exceed limit? What are the hourly rates by staff level? What is the payment schedule? Ask for the expected timeline to a permit-ready submittal and the typical agency review time.
Do you carry professional liability insurance? Is there a written contract? Many engineers use standard agreements such as those published by EJCDC or their own terms; read the limitation of liability clause before signing.
Frequently asked questions
Should I hire the cheapest engineer?
Compare scope first. A low fee that excludes revisions, permits or site visits may cost more overall.
Can the same engineer handle survey and design?
Only if the firm employs a licensed surveyor. Ask whether survey is in-house or subcontracted.
Do I need a contract for a small job?
Yes, at least a signed proposal that defines scope and fee. It prevents disputes about what was promised.
Sources
Have a project? Get a free quote.
Tell us what you need. An engineer licensed in your state replies with scope, fee and schedule.