The client had been told that it was impossible, the builder was adamant in that too.

Most often structural engineers are beset with clients asking ‘what do we need you for, it’s just a building?’ when the reality is quite often that poor advice from others previously has lead to what is perceived to be an increase in cost caused by the Engineer. So it is pleasing to recite those occasions when Engineers are credited with saving money!

On this occasion the client had been told that it was impossible to convert the area above the garage into habitable space because the existing timber trusses could not be cut. We suggested to the client that it was possible to make some limited alterations to the roof space and were appointed to report back on the options.

The client was overjoyed when we presented a scheme that maximised the habitable space, with only relatively modest structural alterations.