We often hear a common question from clients — “Are structural engineers like private hospitals, recommending a list of unnecessary tests just to justify their fees?”
Let’s address this honestly.
Question 1: Are Structural Engineers Like Private Hospitals Who Recommend Extra Tests?
Answer: Absolutely not.
Unlike hospitals that invest heavily in infrastructure and equipment, most structural engineers operate with minimal setup and focus on technical expertise rather than physical assets.
When we recommend structural tests — such as Non-Destructive Testing (NDT), core testing, or load assessments — these are not arbitrary. Each test is conducted as per the latest design codes and building bylaws, ensuring your structure’s health and safety.
These investigations help evaluate whether your building can withstand severe lateral forces such as earthquakes and wind loads.
And if we find areas of concern, we don’t just stop at reporting — we provide practical retrofitting solutions to restore and enhance the building’s safety. As structural engineering companies often recommend, this is not about inflating costs but about protecting lives and property.
In short, our goal isn’t to inflate costs — it’s to protect lives and property.
Question 2: Is a Regular Structural Audit Really Required? How Often Should It Be Done?
Answer: Yes, it is necessary — and for a very simple reason.
Just as regular medical check-ups help detect health issues early, a periodic structural audit helps identify potential structural weaknesses before they turn into safety hazards.
Over time, exposure to weather, modifications, vibrations, or poor maintenance can degrade the structure’s strength. Early detection through a professional audit by a civil structural engineer can save both money and lives.
Recommended frequency:
For residential and commercial buildings — every 5 years.
For public, industrial, or high-occupancy buildings — every 3 years.
(As per many municipal and safety guidelines across India.)
Question 3: We Conducted Some Structural Tests 3 Years Ago During Expansion. Can That Old Report Be Used for a Stability Certificate Today?
Answer: Unfortunately, no.
Those earlier tests were conducted for a different purpose — typically for expansion or modification feasibility. A structural safety audit, on the other hand, focuses on the building’s present health and load-carrying capacity.
Since environmental conditions, occupancy, and even minor structural changes over time can alter performance, fresh tests and assessments by structural engineer are mandatory to issue a valid structural stability certificate today.
In Conclusion
A structural audit isn’t an expense — it’s an investment in safety and peace of mind.
As structural engineers, our duty is to ensure that your building remains fit, safe, and code-compliant throughout its life.
So, the next time you’re advised to perform certain tests or an audit, remember — it’s not an unnecessary “extra.” It’s a responsible act of prevention that ensures your structure stands strong for decades to come.