Understanding Consultants & Engineers and When You Need Them for Your Residential Project

If you’re planning a residential design and construction project, you may need more than just a designer or contractor to ensure that your project is safe and compliant. Fortunately you can find all the pros you need through the Cottage platform. To learn which consultants your project will need, talk to your designer, contractor, and/or local building department.

In the meantime, here’s a quick guide to common consultants, when you might need them, and what to budget:

Land Surveyor

Surveyors map out your property’s boundaries and topography, which is essential for any project that changes a building’s footprint, new construction, or projects near property lines. This helps avoid disputes and ensures you use your space efficiently. Common project types include:

• New Homes
• Accessory Dwelling Units
• Additions
• Landscaping

Structural Engineer

Structural Engineers design your project’s wood or steel framing and foundation to ensure it is safe and compliant. They’re necessary for any work that involves new construction, moving/removing load-bearing walls, or adding floors. Common project types include:

• Extensive Remodeling
• New Homes
• Accessory Dwelling Units
• Additions

Civil Engineer

Civil Engineers design site utilities, drainage, and grading. You’ll need one if your project requires extensive site grading, retaining walls, or drainage systems. Common project types include:

• New Homes
• Accessory Dwelling Units
• Additions

Geotechnical Engineer

Geotechnical Engineers evaluate soil conditions and make recommendations to Structural and/or Civil Engineers. Their goal is to prevent future foundation or retaining wall issues caused by the soil. You may need these services if your property is on a slope, has drainage issues, or is in a geologically hazardous area. Some cities require a soils report even if your property doesn’t meet the conditions above. Common project types include:

• New Homes
• Accessory Dwelling Units
• Additions

Arborist

An arborist assesses the health of existing trees and advises on preservation or removal, especially if your project impacts mature trees or root systems. Common project types include:

• New Homes
• Accessory Dwelling Units
• Additions

Energy Consultant / Title 24 Analyst

Energy consultants review your plans to ensure compliance with energy efficiency regulations (called “Title 24” in California). They’re typically needed for new builds and major remodels. Common project types include:

• Extensive Remodeling
• New Homes
• Accessory Dwelling Units
• Additions

Landscape Designer

Landscape Designers create detailed plans for your outdoor spaces, including plant selection, hardscaping, and irrigation. Their expertise is valuable if you’re looking to transform your yard or integrate outdoor living areas into your project.

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Some unique projects and sites may require other specialty consultants. Most can be found through the Cottage platform:

• Plumber
• Fire Sprinkler Installer
• Solar Installer
• Methane Engineer
• City Permit Expeditor
• Utility Permit Expeditor
• Coastal Commission Permit Expeditor
• As-Built Conditions Provider
• Green Building Inspector
• Asbestos Inspector
• Special/Structural Inspector

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Hiring these consultants early on can prevent costly mistakes and keep your project on track.

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