What questions should I ask before hiring an engineer?

# Questions to Ask Before Hiring an Engineer

About Their Experience & Credentials - What's your relevant experience with projects like mine? - Are you licensed/certified in your state and engineering discipline? - Can you provide references from recent similar projects? - Do you carry professional liability insurance?

About the Project - What's your estimate for timeline and total cost? - What's included in your fee (design, permits, inspections, etc.)? - How do you handle unexpected issues or scope changes? - Will you pull permits and manage inspections, or is that on me?

About Communication & Process - How often will we communicate, and what's your preferred method? - Who will be my main point of contact? - Can you explain your process in plain language? - What happens if I'm unhappy with the work?

About Costs - Is this a flat fee, hourly rate, or percentage of construction cost? - When are payments due (upfront, milestones, completion)? - Are there additional fees I should know about? - What's your cancellation/refund policy?

Pro Tips: Get everything in writing, compare 2-3 quotes, and check online reviews. Don't just pick the cheapest option—look for someone experienced with *your specific type* of project (civil, structural, MEP, environmental, etc.). Ask how they stay current with building codes and regulations in your area.

Use engineers.city to search for licensed engineers in your area, read reviews, and compare qualifications before reaching out. This groundwork upfront saves headaches later!