Engineering inspection of buildings

[Forensic74]

Does anyone know the particulars regarding licensing requirements for structural related inspections? Lets say in the midwest or east. In particular, can an EIT (or a PE from another state) conduct a structural inspection, report to a licensed PE/SE, and then submit a report that is co-signed and stamped by the PE/SE? As I always understood it, this would be viewed as practicing under direct supervision of a licensed individual, no?

Asking because I'm following the big Hurricane Sandy fiasco that is going on in New York and I saw some people suggesting this practice was illegal, on national television.

 

[Ron]

Forensic74....it depends on the level of inspection. For example, a property condition assessment (in general accordance with ASTM E2018), which would include some basic visual structural assessment, can be done by an experienced EIT, an experienced technician or technologist or a licensed engineer. Unless the inspection is done by the licensed engineer, the others must provide the service under his supervision and control.

If you are contemplating something of the level of the ASCE Guideline for Structural Condition Assessment of Existing Buildings (11-99), then you should be an appropriately licensed engineer. Some states, in the event of a state emergency, will allow licensed engineers from other states to perform such services on a temporary or project basis. Check with the licensing board for their opinion on that.

 

[Forensic74]

Thanks Ron, are there any cited references and/or case studies you're relying upon or just general practice guidelines you have followed?

 

[Ron]

ASTM E2018 specifically notes that services should be under direction of an engineer or architect. ASCE documents presume engineering expertise.

I believe from previous posts, you are in the US. Most states have provisions in their engineering law that states something like if you give an opinion on the adequacy of a building, if you provide an opinion as to structural efficacy or if you assess failure of any building or its materials of construction you must be licensed as an engineer.

 

[Forensic74]

Of course, if you give your opinion of those things, you need to be licensed. My question pertains to the field observer (the person out in the field taking photos, notes, observations). Most states dont specify whether or not field observers need to be licensed.

 

[Ron]

Forensic74...generally no. As long as the observer is under the supervision and control of a licensed professional engineer it is acceptable. The engineer is required to assess the qualifications of the individual observer and assign tasks accordingly. The engineer carries all the responsibility.