blog-banner

Are you looking for a contractor?

Submit our quick form and get quotes now!

The Role of a Building Engineer

By Editorial Team

Updated on April 26, 2024

In general, we all know that a building engineer takes on essential tasks for a construction site to run smoothly. However, the scope of their role is much broader and proves their ability to intervene at all stages of a large-scale renovation project.

Thus, it can certainly be said that the importance of the building engineer’s role is matched only by the breadth of his skills. But can we define the role of a building engineer more precisely?

The building engineer: a five-step role

The Role of a Building Engineer

Source: Canva

1- Study of the specifications and the initial proposal

When hired for a project, a building engineer will begin by assessing the general parameters of the job. Thus, they’ll become aware of the specifications, which give a portrait of the project, the framework in which it fits as well as the constraints that weigh on it.

While these constraints often relate to the environment and budget, they also concern insulation, ventilation, heating and all additional devices involved in the structure’s operation. Following its establishment, the new Quebec Construction Code (2012) imposed more rigorous standards concerning these last two aspects mentioned. If you want more information about the rules and regulations in Canada, check out your local building code.

2- Plan design and study of project feasibility

The Role of a Building Engineer

Source: Canva

Based on the submitted project proposal and in order to be able to comment on its feasibility, the engineer will carry out research prior to construction. In addition, they’re in charge of pre-dimensioning the various elements of the building, to then confirm these dimensions in the second instance.

This will determine if the techniques used in the execution of the different project phases are adequate or whether they need to be modified to better meet construction requirements. To do this, building engineers use design software to create mock-ups.

Throughout the process, the building engineer will guide their decisions and recommendations according to the highest possible project standards. More precisely, this implies minimizing the energy consumption and environmental impacts generated by the project’s implementation.

Moreover, this concern extends into energy efficiency as well as the economic performance of the building once it’s completed. Therefore, it’s possible to say that the resource economy is a determining factor in the decision-making process of the building engineer.

3- Staying within the budget and schedule

As the budget devoted to a construction project is rarely unlimited, the building engineer is in charge of establishing the means required to avoid cost overruns in place. In certain cases, they may need to find alternatives to reduce the financial burden imposed by certain project phases.

While money is generally one of the biggest constraints when managing a construction project, time is another issue. In this regard, it should be said that establishing the schedule and respecting it are further responsibilities of the building engineer.

When it comes to planning the timeline, a multitude of factors must be taken into account. These include the time required to obtain the necessary financing, the potential difficulties posed by the season when the work will take place, as well as the problems that may arise during critical phases.

Far from being exhaustive, this list offers a brief overview of the range of factors a building engineer must consider when developing a timeline.

4- Site coordination

The Role of a Building Engineer

Source: Canva

While the building engineer’s involvement begins with the design stage, the design continues on the construction site. Indeed, the building engineer oversees the worksite and the various players who are involved, while keeping an eye on the work’s progress as well as on the way it’s carried out.

If necessary, they’ll ask that certain tasks be repeated or that corrections are made in order to respect quality standards or to optimize installation and overall performance.

5- Taking charge of the administrative aspect of the site

During any construction project, it’s mandatory to submit authorization and permit applications. This is a requirement imposed by the new Quebec Construction Code that we previously discussed (check with your province for specific requirements if you are living elsewhere in Canada). This task adds to the already long list of those that the engineer must accomplish. Note that they monitor how requests initially are processed.

Building Engineer vs Structural Engineer: Two Civil Engineering Expertises

The role of a building engineer.

Source: Canva

These are two distinct specialties in the field of civil engineering, each with its own responsibilities. But do you know specifically what the differences are between these two types of engineers?

What is a building engineer?

The building engineer deals with technical aspects related to:

  • Design,

  • Construction,

  • Maintenance,

  • Renovation of buildings.

This includes the structure itself, as well as other essential elements such as mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems.

They ensure that buildings:

  • Meet safety standards,

  • Are functional and energy-efficient,

  • Comply with building codes and environmental regulations.

What is a structural engineer?

The structural engineer, on the other hand, focuses specifically on the design and analysis of the load-bearing elements of a building, such as:

  • Beams,

  • Columns,

  • Foundations.

They ensure that the structure can support all the loads it may be subjected to, including:

  • The weight of the building itself,

  • Occupancy loads,

  • Wind forces,

  • Potential seismic loads.

This expert works closely with architects to design safe structures while respecting the aesthetic vision of the project. Their expertise is often required in projects involving complex structures or in areas subject to significant environmental constraints.

In summary, although both roles involve building construction, the building engineer has a broader scope, including multiple aspects of a construction project.

What types of projects is the building engineer involved in?

The building engineer is able to intervene as much in the residential sector as in the commercial, industrial or institutional sectors. Their skills are put to use in projects that concern not only the construction but also the expansion and renovation of existing structures. In addition, they can participate in the construction of indoor or outdoor parking lots.

In addition,  they have a decisive role in the protection of cultural heritage because of their ability to restore or maintain the condition of buildings that could otherwise sink into dilapidation.


Get 3 renovation quotes for your home renovation project

RenoQuotes.com can help you get quotes for your home renovation project. If you submit your project to us, we’ll put you in contact with the best contractors who will be able to carry out your project with success. Fill in the form on the homepage (it only takes a few minutes), and you will receive quotes from home renovation specialists.

Dial 1-844 828-1588 to speak with one of our customer service representatives.

Get 3 free quotes for your project!

Submit a project and get 3 free quotes!

Looking for something else?

Table of contents

5 min read

Get 3 free quotes for your project!

Submit a project and get 3 free quotes!

Are you a contractor?

Join our network and receive real leads!

Download the price guide for renovations

We’ll be emailing you the latest market price guide for renovations.



Related articles

The latest industry news, interviews, technologies, and resources.

4 min read

Editorial Team

20 Jun 2024

Working as a Carpenter-Joiner

Carpenter-joiners are as important as ever on construction sites, given that building and erecting wood-made structures are, to this day, an integral part of all new construction projects, whether for commercial or residential projects. If this trade has piqued your interest, you no doubt want to know more about it! Keep reading to learn everything that could be of interest about becoming a carpenter-joiner in Canada.

Renovation trades
7 min read

Paul Riopel

22 May 2024

Subcontracting in Ontario: Important Things to Know

Entering the world of subcontracting in Ontario? This article will walk you through the essentials - from gaining relevant work experience, understanding the legalities such as employment status and taxes, to navigating the job market.

3 min read

Editorial Team

07 Nov 2023

5 Ideas To Beautify Your Home's Exterior

Although summer is drawing to a close, it’s never too late to plan how to decorate the exterior of your home. Whether it’s a new construction project or you’re the owner of an apartment, you have several options to refresh your exterior. 

Small repairs
5 min read

Editorial Team

13 Sep 2024

Land and Soil Remediation: What Are the Key Project Steps?

Looking to undertake a land remediation project? Chances are, you have some questions regarding this sort of project, which entails a rigorous process.

6 min read

Editorial Team

07 Nov 2023

Law 25: Personal Data Protection in Construction

Technological breakthroughs come hand in hand with a host of advantages, including the speed at which data can be compiled and the ease with which multiple pieces of information can be centralized. However, booming IT proficiency and ready access to digital tools also spell greater hacking risks and the need to protect large volumes of sensitive information.

Information and news on the construction sector

Looking for a contractor?

Submit a project and get 3 free quotes now!