Residential Additions

An addition introduces new foundations, framing and connections, and may change the demands on existing systems. Share the proposed layout and any drawings of the original home. These help the engineer coordinate the engineering scope with the design.

An engineer may be needed when expanding a home, adding another story or changing existing supports to connect new living space.

Confirm the engineering scope with the professional you engage and any permit requirements with the local building department.

• Adding a bedroom or living area
• Connecting a new upper level to an existing home

Related permit topics include phased construction.

This page does not say whether a permit is required. Ask the local building department which approvals and documents your project needs.

• SFR
• accessory dwelling unit
• duplex
• single-family
• single-family residence

Start with a short description. These details can help define the scope, but you do not need everything ready to request a quote.

• The project city or county, and the property address if known
• What you want to build, change or repair
• How the space or site is used now and what you plan to change
• Whether you have drawings or photos to share during follow-up
• The status of any permit application and comments received
• Your target dates or other scheduling constraints

• Permit Plans
• Engineering Plans
• Structural Engineering
• Residential Remodel Engineering
• Site Plans
• Warehouse Engineering

Terms that may appear in plans, permit comments or contractor conversations about this work.

• phased construction
• SFR
• accessory dwelling unit
• duplex
• single-family
• single-family residence