RED - Civil & Structural Engineers

We appointed Robert as our architect as he could provide both architectural and structural drawings.<br><br>I explained to Robert that we were wary of going straight in with the planning and building warrant together as there was a risk of wasting money if planning were to decline our application. It would also allow us to contact builders with the concept drawings to get the ball rolling with a contractor and obtain quotes.<br><br>There were a couple of times that Robert disregarded our requests and done his own thing. He would then have to redo the work as per our initial request.<br><br>Planning was approved and the building warrant application was submitted. We didn’t ask for anything to be changed on the drawings nor had planning asked for anything to be amended bar moving a window 10mm. However Robert asked us for additional money because “it took him longer than expected”. He provided a quote , nothing changed from that quote. He was asking for more money with no evidence to back his claim. If he quoted incorrectly, that is on him.<br><br>He also had the cheek to say that the phone calls with him were long and should technically be charged as well. I am happy for a “straight to the point” conversation, however when Robert talks for the majority of the time about things other than the job at hand, that’s not our issue.<br><br>Robert explained that our existing stairway would have to be adapted and we would need fire doors throughout the house. Which we understood. Not once did Robert explain that 12 different areas of our external walls would need to be reinforced. That a kitchen and 3 bathrooms would need to be ripped out and remedied in order to complete these works. Knowing that we planned to stay in the house with our 2 small kids while these works were being carried out, he should have explained this to us before this point.<br><br>We only realised that the reinforcement works were required after I looked at the drawings. Not a single contractor realised that that work would be required. So the ballpark figure quotes we received from them were way under.<br><br>I asked Robert if I was misreading the drawings and I was worried. His reply: “let me know if you wish to withdraw the application”. No explanation, nothing.<br><br>I contacted a few other structural engineers for a second opinion. They all agreed that Robert’s drawings are correct and there would not be another way around it. However ALL of them said they would never have touched a job like this knowing the work involved and structural engineers have a duty to explain these things to their clients.<br><br>We also found out that Robert is not SER registered. He appoints someone in England to sign off his work without knowledge of the job.<br><br>In summary, Robert is very experienced and knowledgeable and at the end of the day, done the job that was asked of him. However I think he saw an opportunity to take advantage of us and ran with it.<br><br>We have thrown a lot of money at this project already and we will not be able to start it as the work involved is obscene and way outwith our budget. The cost of the work out-ways the value it adds to our house exponentially. Had we known what we know now, we would never have started it.

Excellent quality of output and good communication.

We needed a structural engineer urgently and Robert arranged to come out at short notice and completed the inspection. Very knowledgeable and efficient. Would highly recommend. Dougie

I contacted RED for advice on structural alterations and renovations. Totally professional and top-notch service. Robert was very knowledgeable and went above and beyond with his work. Price was reasonable for the service received.

Robert at RED conducted a structural survey, prepared a detailed report, and managed the building warrant application through to its successful approval for the removal of a wall in my flat. Throughout the entire process, Robert was courteous, knowledgeable, and consistently kept me informed of progress. I highly recommend his services.

We have no hesitation in recommending RED. Robert was extremely approachable, helpful, prompt, thorough and professional throughout our commission. Robert leaves you feeling you have complete confidence in the information he provides.

Had a fantastic experience using RED and can't recommend enough. We had a structural wall removed in our property and Robert at RED was the perfect fit for us. He guided us through the whole project and was always at hand to answer questions and bounce ideas off. Fantastic communication throughout and attention to detail is next to none. Superb service.

RED conducted a structural survey on part of a property I was buying.<br><br>I was extremely happy with the service RED provided. In particular:<br>• The work was done very quickly, with me providing no advanced notice. I called RED on Friday afternoon, the property was inspected on Monday morning and I received the final report on Tuesday morning.<br>• Robert from RED communicated well. He proactively shared his knowledge, often providing information over and above what I would have expected, along with helpful suggestions and advice based on his past experiences.<br>• Robert was also approachable and open to answering my questions. He specifically took the time to explain concepts in simple language and provided evidential documentation where available.<br><br>I would gladly use RED again for similar work.

A very professional service, always friendly and eager to help.. Thank you! 😊

I couldn't recommend the team at RED highly enough. From start to finish our project was handled professionally and we were guided through the design and warrant process from start to finish with excellent communication. Would definitely work with RED again.