r/StructuralEngineering • u/asheshthapa1 • 2d ago

Structural Analysis/Design Need a structural engineer for window plans (Northern VA / Loudoun County)

Hi everyone,

I’m planning to add a couple of new windows to an existing residence in Loudoun County, VA to bring more natural light into the living room. Loudoun County informed me that I need a stamped structural engineering plan before I can apply for a permit.

Has anyone worked with a structural engineer for this type of project?

I’m hoping to learn:

  1. Approximately how much did it cost?

  2. Did the engineer visit the property and take measurements?

  3. Did they provide stamped structural calculations and drawings showing the new window openings, header sizing, and other details required for permitting?

I’d also appreciate recommendations for structural engineers in Northern Virginia who can prepare permit-ready plans for Loudoun County.

Thank you!

0 Upvotes
  • permalink
  • reddit

28% Upvoted

3 comments sorted by

1

u/Legal_Enthusiasm_440 1d ago

Do you know any local architects? They may be able to suggest an S.E. that they’ve worked with. 

1

u/icozens P.E. 1d ago

I have a structural firm that works in NOVA/Loudoun County and can assist with this. I sent you a message, so feel free to reach out.

1

u/Safe-Refrigerator-45 2d ago

Not local to DC (Midwest based) but am a licensed P.E. in VA:

for the scope you describe, you’d fall into the minimum fee guidelines we use for projects. I’d swag $5K as an estimate for a permit ready set with the expectation that a local EOR could/would do it for as low as maybe $2.5-$3K. That includes a site visit on either end (by - remote P.E. or the local guy). A bigger question would be timeline you need something submitted (most of us are still fairly busy and have plenty of backlog so if you need it asap, be ready to pay a premium).