Key points- An engineer can seal drawings prepared by others only after reviewing and taking responsibility for them.
- Expect some corrections or added calculations – that is normal.
- The engineer must be licensed in the state where the project is built.
Drafters, designers and contractors often prepare good drawings, then learn the building department wants an engineer’s seal. The good news: you do not need to start over.
What the Engineer Reviews
- Loads and load paths from roof to foundation
- Beam, header, post and footing sizes
- Lateral bracing for wind and seismic loads
- Connections and details
- Code requirements for your jurisdiction
What Might Change
Common updates include larger beams, added hold-downs or shear walls, revised footing sizes and extra details. These are added to your sheets or provided as engineering sheets and calculations.
Why a Review Is Always Required
A seal means the engineer takes professional responsibility for the design. Engineering licensing rules do not allow sealing work the engineer has not reviewed – which also protects you if questions come up during inspection.
How to Make It Fast
- Send the full set as a PDF, plus CAD files if you have them
- Include the project address so the right code and loads are used
- Attach any comments from the city
How Long Does It Take?
Simple sets that need little change are reviewed quickly. Sets that need new calculations, beam changes or extra details take longer. A clear quote should state the delivery date up front.
Quick Answers
Will the engineer redraw my plans?
Usually not. Corrections are added to your sheets or supplied as engineering sheets and calculations.
What if the engineer finds a problem?
You get a clear list of what must change and why, and the fix is designed before sealing.
Wet stamp or digital seal?
Most building departments accept digitally sealed PDFs; some still require wet-stamped paper.
Learn more in our engineer stamp guide or see our seal and stamp service.
