THE 10 BEST Structural Engineering Services in PORTLAND, OR
| Business Name | Key Services | Best For | Address | Hours | PS Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lauren Thomas Consulting | Residential & Small Commercial Engineering, Structural Observations, Seismic Retrofit | Homeowners Needing Thorough Inspections | 10395 SW Bonanza Way, Tigard, OR 97224 | By Appointment | 4.8/5 |
| ProStruct Engineering | Residential Permit Plans, ADUs, Remodels, Foundation Design | Budget-Friendly New Construction | Online Service (Oregon-wide) | Mon-Fri: 9am-5pm | 4.5/5 |
| BSM Engineering | Civil & Structural Engineering, Seismic Rehabilitation, Deep Foundation Design | Complex Commercial & Bridge Projects | 865 NE Tomahawk Island Dr, Ste 101, Portland, OR 97217 | Mon-Fri: 8am-5pm | 4.3/5 |
| Miller Consulting Engineers | Full-Service Structural Engineering, Residential to Industrial | Diverse Project Portfolio | 9600 SW Oak St, Ste 400, Portland, OR 97223 | Mon-Fri: 7:30am-5pm | 4.4/5 |
| Hayden Consulting Engineers | Structural & Civil Engineering, Fire Escape Certification, Seismic Upgrades | Historic Building Retrofits | 12480 SW 68th Ave, Tigard, OR 97223 | Mon-Fri: 8am-5pm | 4.2/5 |
| Peterson Structural Engineers | Municipal Design, Complex Custom Homes, Forensic Investigations | Challenging Custom Home Sites | 9400 SW Barnes Rd, Ste 100, Portland, OR 97225 | Mon-Fri: 8am-5pm | 4.6/5 |
| Framework Engineering | Structural Engineering, Seismic Retrofit, Foundation Design | Small Office Personal Attention | 107 SE Washington St, Portland, OR 97214 | Mon-Thu: 9am-5pm | 4.5/5 |
| Strata Design | Geotechnical Engineering, Site Exploration, Landslide Mitigation | Site-Specific Soil & Foundation Issues | 2117 NE Oregon St, Portland, OR 97232 | Mon-Fri: 7am-5pm | 4.4/5 |
| DCI Engineers | Large-Scale Commercial, Multi-Family Residential, Sustainable Design | High-Rise & Complex Structures | Portland Office (Contact for address) | Mon-Fri: 8am-5pm | 4.1/5 |
| Drafting Everyday | Residential Remodels, Additions, Deck Designs, ADU Conversions | Quick Turnaround Permitting | 5331 S Macadam Ave, Portland, OR 97239 | By Appointment | 4.3/5 |
#1. Lauren Thomas Consulting – Best for Homeowners Needing Thorough Inspections
Key Highlights:
- Over 20 years of experience with residential and small commercial structural engineering
- Provides detailed on-site inspections lasting 1.5-2 hours with comprehensive written reports
- Specializes in older homes, real estate transaction assessments, and seismic retrofits
Lauren Thomas Consulting has built an outstanding reputation in the Portland metro area for providing personal, expert structural engineering services. Owner Laurie Thomas is known for her thorough approach, spending significant time on each property to identify structural concerns and prioritize necessary repairs.
Clients consistently praise her ability to explain complex engineering concepts in simple terms. She serves homeowners, buyers, sellers, and contractors across Oregon, Washington, California, Idaho, and beyond. Her expertise covers everything from foundation assessments to seismic upgrades for older structures.
Lauren’s hands-on approach means you work directly with a licensed professional engineer rather than junior staff. This personalized service ensures every detail gets proper attention. Whether you are buying a historic home or planning a major renovation, her comprehensive evaluations help you make informed decisions about your property’s structural integrity.
#2. ProStruct Engineering – Best for Budget-Friendly New Construction
Key Highlights:
- 100% success rate in obtaining residential and commercial building permits
- Transparent fixed pricing with fast turnaround times
- Licensed engineers specializing in ADUs, remodels, additions, and new home construction
ProStruct Engineering focuses on making the structural engineering process smooth and affordable for Oregon homeowners. They pride themselves on delivering high-quality engineering plans that meet all building code requirements while staying within budget constraints.
Their team of professional structural and civil engineers handles everything from load-bearing wall removal to retaining wall design. They understand that home projects represent significant investments and work to minimize costs without compromising safety or quality.
ProStruct’s engineers are responsive to client questions throughout the design and construction phases. They provide construction administration services including responding to contractor questions and conducting structural observations. Their streamlined approach helps projects move from concept to permit approval quickly, reducing delays and keeping construction on schedule.
#3. BSM Engineering – Best for Complex Commercial & Bridge Projects
Key Highlights:
- Specializes in civil, structural, and geotechnical engineering coordination
- Expert services in deep foundation design and pile driving analysis
- Over 40 years of combined experience in building, bridge, and marine projects
BSM Engineering brings decades of specialized expertise to challenging engineering projects throughout the Portland area. Their team excels at coordinating multiple engineering disciplines to deliver comprehensive solutions for complex structures.
The firm provides unique specialty services including welding engineering, inspection, and quality control. Their expertise with deep foundations and seismic structural rehabilitation makes them ideal for projects requiring advanced technical solutions.
BSM Engineering works closely with contractors, architects, and building owners to ensure projects meet stringent technical requirements. Their knowledge of marine structures and bridge engineering sets them apart from typical structural firms. Whether you need foundation testing with pile driving analyzers or seismic upgrades for existing buildings, their experienced engineers deliver practical solutions.
#4. Miller Consulting Engineers – Best for Diverse Project Portfolio
Key Highlights:
- Founded in 1978 with over 46 years of structural engineering experience
- Completes over 1,500 projects annually across residential, commercial, and industrial sectors
- Strong reputation for innovation, teamwork, and superior technical work
Miller Consulting Engineers has grown into one of Portland’s most respected structural engineering firms. Their longevity and steady growth reflect their commitment to quality work and client satisfaction.
The firm provides engineering services using all structural materials including timber, steel, masonry, concrete, and composites. This versatility allows them to tackle any project regardless of size or complexity. From residential remodels to large commercial buildings, their experienced team delivers practical solutions.
Miller Consulting Engineers emphasizes continuous learning and mentoring within their organization. This culture ensures their engineers stay current with building codes and engineering practices. They provide services for seismic evaluations, forensic investigations, and construction administration. Their prompt staff treats each project with attention to detail, ensuring quality results every time.
#5. Hayden Consulting Engineers – Best for Historic Building Retrofits
Key Highlights:
- Over 30 years of engineering experience with founder Darron Hayden
- Licensed in Oregon, Washington, California, Idaho, Nevada, and Montana
- Specializes in fire escape certification and seismic upgrades for older structures
Hayden Consulting Engineers has built a strong practice around preserving and strengthening Portland’s historic building stock. They understand the unique challenges of working with older construction and unreinforced masonry buildings.
The firm provides structural assessments and certifications for fire escapes throughout Portland, helping building owners meet city safety requirements. Their work ensures these critical life safety features remain functional and code-compliant.
Hayden’s team combines structural and civil engineering expertise to serve residential and commercial clients. They offer seismic evaluations using ASCE 41 guidelines and design practical retrofit solutions. Whether you own a century-old building or need structural design for new construction, their experienced engineers provide responsive service and creative problem-solving.
#6. Peterson Structural Engineers – Best for Challenging Custom Home Sites
Key Highlights:
- Founded in 1967 with over 55 years of structural engineering excellence
- Specializes in complex custom homes on difficult properties
- Licensed in over 30 states with expertise in municipal and specialized structures
Peterson Structural Engineers tackles the most challenging structural projects with confidence and creativity. They excel at designing custom homes for steep slopes, unstable soils, and other difficult site conditions.
The firm has expanded beyond residential work to serve water districts, parks departments, and commercial clients. Their specialized engineering capabilities include forensic investigations, earthquake damage assessment, and structures with complex moving parts.
Peterson’s engineers work directly with homeowners, architects, and contractors to deliver practical solutions. They offer extraordinarily quick turnaround times without sacrificing quality. From simple structural assessments to complex public infrastructure projects, their team brings deep technical knowledge and problem-solving skills. Their reputation for reliability has earned them projects at major theme parks and across the country.
#7. Framework Engineering – Best for Small Office Personal Attention
Key Highlights:
- Founded by engineers with backgrounds in both architecture and structural engineering
- Hands-on construction experience brings practical perspective to designs
- Small office size ensures principals handle every project personally
Framework Engineering offers a unique combination of architectural understanding and structural engineering expertise. The principals have worked on construction sites throughout their careers, giving them insight into buildability and construction challenges.
Their small office structure means clients work directly with experienced professional engineers rather than junior staff. This personal attention leads to better coordinated projects and more thoughtful design solutions.
Framework has consulted on over 1,000 projects throughout California, Oregon, and Washington. They specialize in wood-frame structures, seismic retrofits, and foundation design. Their understanding of both design intent and construction realities helps them create elegant structural solutions. Whether you are working on a residential remodel or commercial renovation, their collaborative approach ensures smooth project execution.
#8. Strata Design – Best for Site-Specific Soil & Foundation Issues
Key Highlights:
- Operating since 2006 with extensive geotechnical engineering experience
- Over 1,000 clients across Oregon and Washington
- Specializes in subsurface exploration, landslide mitigation, and drainage solutions
Strata Design provides critical geotechnical engineering services that form the foundation of safe construction. Their team analyzes soil conditions, groundwater issues, and site-specific challenges before design work begins.
The firm’s services include soil testing, environmental contaminant assessment, and erosion control monitoring. They provide construction quality control and special inspections to ensure projects meet specifications.
Strata Design’s engineers understand Portland’s unique geology including landslide-prone areas and challenging soils. They prepare technical reports for jurisdictional building code compliance and design practical solutions for retaining structures and deep foundations. Their laboratory and field testing capabilities support both design and construction phases. Whether you are building on a steep hillside or need drainage solutions, their experienced geotechnical staff provides the data and analysis necessary for successful projects.
#9. DCI Engineers – Best for High-Rise & Complex Structures
Key Highlights:
- Established Portland office in 1998 with 20+ employees
- Named Engineering Firm of the Year by DJCOregon in 2018
- Expertise in sustainable design, mass timber construction, and multi-family housing
DCI Engineers brings national resources and expertise to Portland projects. Their Portland office specializes in construction engineering, demolition planning, renovation, and sustainable design approaches.
The firm has worked on some of Portland’s most recognizable structures including the Convention Center and major sports facilities. Their expertise with mass timber and sustainable materials positions them at the forefront of modern building techniques.
DCI’s principals lead a mentoring-focused office that develops the next generation of structural engineers. They provide civil engineering services in addition to structural design. From high-rise residential towers to complex renovation projects, their team handles large-scale challenges. Their young, smart, and flexible leadership creates a collaborative environment that respects work-life balance while delivering excellent technical work.
#10. Drafting Everyday – Best for Quick Turnaround Permitting
Key Highlights:
- Specializes in residential remodels, additions, and ADU conversions
- Fast, accurate drafting and engineering plan preparation
- Experienced with Portland permitting requirements and processes
Drafting Everyday focuses on getting residential projects through the permitting process quickly and efficiently. Their team understands Portland’s building code requirements and prepares complete permit sets that meet city standards.
The firm handles deck designs, additions, remodels, and accessory dwelling unit conversions. They combine drafting services with engineering expertise to create comprehensive permit packages.
Clients appreciate their quick response times and ability to navigate permitting challenges. Whether you are adding a second story, converting a garage to living space, or building a new ADU, their knowledge of local requirements streamlines the approval process. Their efficient service helps homeowners avoid costly delays and move forward with construction projects faster.
How Much Does a Structural Engineer Cost in Portland?
Structural engineering costs in Portland vary based on project scope and complexity. For residential consultations and home inspections, expect to pay between $300 and $800 for a basic evaluation. These visits typically last 1.5 to 2 hours and include a written report with findings.
For full engineering services including calculations and stamped drawings, residential projects typically range from $1,500 to $5,000. Simple projects like deck designs or load-bearing wall removal fall on the lower end. Complex projects involving foundation design, seismic retrofits, or whole-house additions cost more.
Commercial projects and larger structures require more extensive analysis and typically start around $5,000, scaling up based on building size and complexity. Most Portland structural engineers charge either hourly rates ($150-$250 per hour) or flat fees for specific deliverables. Always request detailed quotes and clarify what services are included before starting work.
When Do I Need a Structural Engineer in Portland?
Portland building codes require structural engineering for many projects beyond basic repairs. You need a licensed structural engineer whenever your project involves changes to load-bearing elements, foundations, or the structural frame of a building.
Specific situations requiring structural engineering include removing or modifying load-bearing walls, building additions that connect to existing structures, designing new foundations or retaining walls over 4 feet tall, and any seismic retrofitting work. Portland also requires engineering for custom homes, multi-family buildings, and most commercial construction.
If you are buying or selling a home built before 1950, a structural evaluation can identify hidden problems before they become expensive repairs. Older homes in Portland often have foundation settlement, inadequate seismic bracing, or structural modifications done without permits. Getting a professional assessment protects your investment and helps you plan for necessary improvements.
What is Portland’s Seismic Code Requirement?
Portland sits in Seismic Design Category D, requiring buildings to meet strict earthquake-resistant design standards. All new construction must follow the Oregon Structural Specialty Code, which incorporates modern seismic requirements to protect life safety during earthquakes.
For existing buildings, Portland City Code Chapter 24.85 establishes when seismic upgrades become mandatory. If you are doing major renovations exceeding $376,244 in value, you must provide an ASCE 41 seismic evaluation. Until January 1, 2029, most buildings constructed before 1974 do not require seismic evaluation reports for additions or alterations, though unreinforced masonry buildings may still need upgrades.
Unreinforced masonry buildings face the strictest requirements because they pose the highest earthquake risk. When renovation costs exceed specific thresholds (adjusted annually), full seismic strengthening becomes mandatory. These requirements balance the need for earthquake safety with the practical realities of preserving Portland’s historic building stock. Working with an experienced structural engineer helps you understand which requirements apply to your specific project.