Fee for reviewing and sealing drawings

The only way that I would feel comfortable about this type of situation would be to start from scratch. In the past, that is how I have priced these 'requests'. Invariably, the reply is, "So-and-so only charges $XXX". I tell them to go back to So-and-so.

My firm gets requests from time to time to do what you described, which is essentially rubber stamping plans as far as I am concerned. I won't do what you described unless the client pays for a complete redesign for a full design fee with the documents being recreated in my office. When I seal and sign the drawings, I am stating that the design and construction documents were prepared under my direct supervision. If I review the design, the design is not engineering services performed under my direct supervision, in my opinion. Sometimes I get the full fee. Sometimes I don't.

I typically charge hourly, and do my own calculations. I typically ask for the CAD file so I can tweak the design if needed and use my own title block. If the drawing is a mess, I redraw it.

Don Phillips

many engineers will do a reveiw and stamp. it depends on what type of project you are involved in. most likely it is a residence or something on a smaller scale. you can charge by the hour, some I know have a flat fee. for an average size house with normal details 2- 3 hours time and about $500 is common. if so and so does it for less than like the man says, go see so and so.

That may be very close to "Plan Stamping"

I work with a few "designers". We go over the details of the structure before they begin designing. I supply all the structural answers they need and answer questions as they progress.

When complete - I fully believe I have supervised all aspects of the project because I do have control and can change things as needed. The only thing I didn't do - was draw it.

I think you can make this work to the satisfaction of all involved. If we need an architect - we involve him/her at the onset.

Some states (such as Texas) specifically prohibit the review and stamping of other's plans.

Other states (such as Utah, last time I checked) have provisions that specifically allow an instate engineer to review, accept responsibility for, and seal work done by others. I think the responses above missed the "assuming it is legal in your jurisdiction" clause.

In my limited experience, prices can range all over, because it just isn't done that often, and people are leary about accepting responsibility under these circumstances. I've seen cases where it was more or less an hourly charge, others where it was much higher.