Here's the cold hard truth. Engineering ain't cheap. You're gonna shell out anywhere from $500 for a basic structural inspection to a mighty $10k for a full-blown residential project. Now, don't let those PAPER-STAMPERS fool ya into thinking all you're paying for is a signature. Nope. It's structural loads, soil reports, and zoning variances all rolled into one. Look, I've seen folks balk at these prices, but remember: foundation settling ain't gonna fix itself.

You're looking for a PE, right? Sure, you could find some unqualified draftsmen around here, but let's be real—you're wanting structural, civil, or maybe even an MEP systems expert. Structural engineers do the heavy lifting; civil guys deal with site plans. Then there's the mysterious MEP folks (trust me, they're the ones making sure your wiring doesn't blow the whole operation).

I've seen too many folks jump on Google and hope for the best. Ain't that easy. Your best bet? Hit up local engineering societies or ask around at zoning offices (yes, even if it's a nightmare). But whatever you do, make sure they've got a PE Stamp. No stamp, no deal.

Look, there are names you trust, and then there are names you need a lawyer to pronounce. You want companies that know Memphis inside out. The kind that knows all about sandy loam and expansive clay, or the seismic surprises that send the untrained running. You call around, you ask, 'Who's done this before? Who's familiar with the peculiarities of our local soil?'

It's a different beast entirely. For residential, you need someone who actually walks the site, not just some kid who fiddles with CAD back at the office. Commercial's got its own headaches—seismic load demands and fancy MEP integrations that'll make your head spin. Residential projects might run you $3k in a best-case scenario, while commercial? Forget about it, you're talking MUCH higher stakes (and prices).

Don't expect overnight miracles. Look, I've seen projects drag on because of soil reports that nobody bothered to read (expansive clay isn't gonna magically disappear). On average, small projects might clear in a month or two, but commercial gigs? Strap in for a six-month ride, maybe longer if the PAPER-STAMPERS have their way.

Gonna level with ya—free ain't always free. Sure, some might offer a quick look-see for no charge, but don't count on detailed blueprint audits without a fee. Why? Because doing the math actually takes time. And time, as they say, is money. So when they say 'consultation,' ask 'How much do I owe ya?' And see what they say.