Structural Engineering Richmond

Looking for engineering structures that perfectly balance visual appeal with practical functionality? Principal Built Engineering specialises in creating structural engineering designs that not only meet stringent building requirements but also improve the aesthetics of your project.

As structural engineering consultants serving Richmond and the surrounding areas of Melbourne, we have extensive experience across residential, commercial, and industrial developments. Our professional engineering services will deliver peak outcomes for your project while still adhering to all relevant Australian standards.



How We Can Help with Structural Engineering in Richmond

Principal Built Engineering offers in-depth, cost-effective solutions tailored to Richmond's diverse building landscape:

Design and Documentation

  • Concrete, timber, steel and masonry structural design.

  • Framing systems that include beams, beams, columns, bracing, trusses, etc.

  • Footings and foundations, including strip footings, rafts, pads, and deep foundations.

  • Retaining structures like masonry, concrete, or anchored retaining walls.

  • Construction documentation, including full sets of structural drawings and specifications.

Residential Projects

Commercial and Industrial

  • Warehouses, including portal frames and tilt-up concrete panels

  • Steel-framed sheds, workshops, and storage facilities

  • Offices and retail fit-outs, including load assessments

  • Mezzanine structures, suspended floors and racking systems

Temporary Works Design

  • Temporary retaining structures

  • Formwork systems

  • Propping and shoring design

  • Scaffold loading assessments and anchorage certification

retaining and screen walls

Regulatory Compliance and Certification

  • Issuing of Certificate of Compliance

  • Structural review for planning submissions and its compliance with NCC, AS Standards, and other relevant codes

Residential Engineering

  • New homes, townhouses, and multi-unit developments

  • Extensions and alterations for existing buildings

  • Carports, verandahs, decks, pergolas and other outdoor structures

  • Slab and footing designs

  • Full-scale renovations

Residential Designs

Structural Assessments and Reports

  • Structural condition assessments and site investigations

  • Defect reports and remedial design

Construction Phase Services

  • Site inspections and verification of structural compliance 

  • Review of contractor RFI submissions

  • Variation support and design clarifications

  • Troubleshooting any issues with construction

  • Coordination with builders and tradespeople

smooth design process

Professional Structural Engineering Design in Richmond

At Principal Built Engineering, we pride ourselves on delivering structural engineering design that pushes boundaries while maintaining safety and compliance. Our approach combines traditional engineering principles with cutting-edge methodologies. 

Choose us and you can expect:

  • Advanced Computer-Aided-Design (CAD) software for precise documentation

  • Sustainable infrastructure options that lower environmental impact

  • Cost-effective designs that don’t lessen structural integrity or aesthetics

  • Collaborative approach with architects and builders

  • Compliance with all current Australian standards

  • Professional engineering services backed by extensive insurance

Our engineers analyse every aspect to deliver services that are both innovative and practical.

Design foundation systems

Why Choose Principal Built Engineering for Structural Engineering in Narre Warren?

Selecting the right partner for structural engineering in Richmond can make all the difference to your project's success. At PB Engineering, we boast:

  • Chartered Professional Engineers: Our team holds the highest industry qualifications

  • Client-focused approach: We treat your goals as our own throughout the project

  • Proven track record: Successfully delivered hundreds of projects across Melbourne

  • End-to-end support: From initial concept through to construction completion

  • Professional Indemnity Insurance: We are fully covered for your peace of mind

Our commitment extends beyond delivering drawings. We build lasting relationships with clients, providing ongoing support and advocating for your best interests at every stage.

Here’s a look at the different types of structures we can assist you with:

  • These are freestanding structures that provide additional space on a property, often used for storage, workshops, studios, or guest accommodations. Outbuildings come in various forms, including sheds, barns, and utility rooms, and can be adapted for diverse functional needs, from gardening tools and equipment storage to recreational spaces.

  • Gazebos are open-sided, roofed structures typically found in gardens or parks, offering a sheltered spot to relax and enjoy the outdoors. With their open, inviting design, gazebos serve as beautiful focal points in landscaping and are often used for social gatherings, outdoor dining, or quiet retreats.

  • A patio is an outdoor space typically adjoining a residence, used for dining, entertaining, or simply enjoying fresh air. Patios are often paved or built on a stable surface and can be either open-air or covered, providing a comfortable outdoor extension of a home’s living space.

  • Garages are enclosed structures designed for vehicle storage, providing protection from the elements as well as security. They can be attached to a home or freestanding and may include additional storage space for tools, equipment, or recreational items.

  • A carport is a semi-covered structure that provides basic shelter for vehicles without fully enclosing them. Typically supported by posts with a roof overhead, carports are an economical and effective way to shield vehicles from sun, rain, and snow, while allowing easy access and ventilation.

  • Pergolas are open structures with an overhead lattice or beam framework, often used to create shaded pathways, sitting areas, or garden features. They support climbing plants and vines, enhancing garden aesthetics and providing a cozy, natural retreat for outdoor relaxation.

  • Sheds are compact, freestanding storage buildings, often used to store garden tools, lawn equipment, or outdoor furniture. Built for functionality, sheds vary in size and style and are a popular addition for homeowners seeking organized, accessible storage for outdoor items.

  • Decks are raised, flat surfaces attached to a house or freestanding in a yard, providing an outdoor space for seating, dining, or entertainment. Typically constructed of wood or composite materials, decks create a versatile platform for outdoor living and are ideal for enjoying views or enhancing backyard usability.

Throughout the design process, our residential structural engineering team provides comprehensive support to ensure each structure meets all engineering requirements while enhancing the overall aesthetic of your property. At Principal Built Engineering, we are dedicated to delivering residential engineering solutions that elevate your outdoor spaces and bring your vision to life.

Start Your Structural Engineering Project in Richmond With Us

Ready to bring your vision to life with our structural engineering in Richmond? Get in touch today by calling 03 8904 8037, or email info@pbengineering.com.au to discuss how our professional engineering services can transform your next project.



Types of Walls in Residential Buildings:

  • These walls support the weight of the structure above, including floors, roofs, or additional levels. Removing a load-bearing wall requires an alternative support system, such as beams or columns, to redistribute the weight safely.

  • Primarily used to divide spaces, these walls do not carry loads from above. However, non-load-bearing walls may sometimes include bracing elements that provide lateral stability to the structure, especially in wind-prone or earthquake-prone areas. If such bracing is present, removing or altering the wall requires careful planning to maintain the building’s stability. Our team will design alternative solutions to meet bracing requirements and ensure stability.

  • Shear walls resist lateral forces, such as wind or seismic activity, providing additional stability to the structure. Often found in taller buildings or homes in areas prone to strong winds or earthquakes, shear walls play a crucial role in maintaining the building’s integrity and should be handled with caution when considering modifications.

  • Fire-rated walls are designed to resist fire for a specified period, providing critical safety in residential buildings by slowing fire spread. Removing or altering a fire-rated wall requires adherence to fire codes and safety regulations, often necessitating alternative fire barriers.

Load Bearing Wall Inspection & Removal

  • Exterior walls enclose and protect the building from environmental elements and may or may not be load-bearing. Altering these walls can impact energy efficiency, weather resistance, and structural stability, making it essential to assess their load-bearing capacity and insulation properties before any modification.

  • Shared between adjoining properties, party walls often carry loads and serve as a fire barrier between residences. Changes to party walls usually require coordination with adjoining property owners and compliance with specific regulations regarding shared structures.

  • Often found in attics or sloped ceilings, knee walls are short walls that support roof rafters or create usable space under sloping roofs. Although usually non-load-bearing, they may have minor load-bearing functions, particularly in older homes, and should be assessed before modification.

By identifying the type of wall and its function within your building, we ensure that any removal or alteration is completed safely and in compliance with structural requirements.

FAQs

  • We are capable of conceptualising a range of different types of outbuildings, including sheds and garages, carports, decks, and pergolas. We can even design larger structures, like home extensions!

  • Yes, we do. Our structural engineers will work with your chosen contractors and project managers at all times, offering guidance throughout the entire construction phase.

  • A load-bearing wall is one that supports the structure above it, whether that is a roof or a second storey. Knocking down load-bearing walls can lead to the entire structure becoming unstable, so it is important that the building is reinforced appropriately if they are going to be removed or altered.

  • At PB Engineering you can rely on us for a wide range of earthworking services, including soil grading, management and excavation services. These can help prepare the construction site so that the structure built is stable and secure.

  • We have been accredited by organisations like the International Engineering Alliance, the Victorian Building Authority, and Engineers Australia.

  • We have many years of experience working with councils across Melbourne, including Narre Warren, so know what needs to be done and checked off for approval. Our knowledge of NCC and Victorian Building guidelines allows us to navigate all council requirements and compliance standards, meaning each component is designed to be 100% certified.

Areas We Serve

Ready to Work on Your Next Project?