Can a Registered Architect Perform a Structural Inspection on a Home?
When you’re buying, selling, or maintaining a home, structural integrity should be at the top of your checklist. A home may look beautiful on the surface, but what lies behind the walls, beneath the floors, and above the ceilings tells the real story. At Arch Inspections, we often hear a common question from homeowners and buyers alike:
The short answer is yes so let’s dive deeper into what that really means, and why it matters.
What Is a Structural Inspection?
A structural inspection is a detailed evaluation of the structural components of a home—its foundation, framing, load-bearing walls, beams, columns, floors, roof structure, and more. The purpose is to assess whether the home’s “skeleton” is sound and functioning as intended, or whether there are signs of movement, distress, or failure that could impact safety and long-term value.
Structural inspections are often recommended when:
There are visible cracks in walls or ceilings
Doors and windows are sticking or misaligned
Floors feel uneven or bouncy
There is visible water damage, especially near the foundation
You’re purchasing an older home or one with additions
A prior inspection flagged potential structural concerns.
Who Can Perform a Structural Inspection?
In most states, including New Jersey, a licensed structural engineer (PE) is traditionally the go-to professional for a structural inspection, especially when detailed load calculations or design recommendations are required. However, registered architects (RA) are also fully qualified to evaluate residential structures within the scope of their professional practice.
What’s the Difference?
Structural Engineers specialize in load calculations, materials science, and building mechanics. They often work on large-scale infrastructure and complex engineering systems.
Registered Architects, on the other hand, are trained not only in structural systems but also in spatial planning, codes, building envelopes, and the holistic design and performance of buildings.
In many cases, an experienced architect can assess structural conditions accurately, especially for typical residential construction. They can also determine whether repairs, further evaluation, or immediate action is needed.
What Happens During an Architect-Led Structural Inspection?
When you book a structural inspection with Arch Inspections, our architect will:
- Conduct a Visual Evaluation
We thoroughly examine your home’s interior and exterior for structural red flags: foundation cracks, settling, sagging framing, moisture damage, and more. - Assess the Structure in Context
Unlike a general home inspector, we interpret structural issues in light of your home’s overall design, history, and long-term performance. - Document and Explain Our Findings
You’ll receive a written report that clearly outlines any issues discovered, along with photographic evidence and professional recommendations. - Advise on Next Steps
Whether it’s a simple repair or a potential structural redesign, we’ll walk you through your options—and if necessary, connect you with additional specialists
Need STRUCTURAL help on your home?
We want to help solve your home’s structural issues.
Why Choose a Registered Architect?
Here’s what sets an architect-led structural inspection apart:
- Broad Building Knowledge
Architects understand how structural systems interact with other elements like insulation, roofing, drainage, and interior design. - Design-Aware Insight
If you’re considering renovations or additions, we evaluate structural conditions with your future plans in mind. - Code Expertise
We interpret findings through the lens of building codes and zoning regulations, giving you a clearer path toward compliance and permitting. - Cost-Conscious Recommendations
We prioritize practical, buildable solutions that protect your budget and your home.
In other words, when you work with Arch Inspections, you get more than a checklist you get clarity, strategy, and peace of mind.
When Should a Structural Engineer Be Involved?
In residential construction, the involvement of a structural engineer is typically only necessary for homes that utilize steel or reinforced concrete structural systems which are far less common than traditional wood-framed structures.
For the vast majority of single-family homes in New Jersey, which are built using wood framing, a licensed architect is fully qualified to evaluate structural issues and recommend corrective actions. However, if your home includes complex steel beam configurations, reinforced concrete walls or slabs, or other specialized structural components, a structural engineer may be brought in to provide detailed load calculations or stamped documentation required for construction or permitting.
At Arch Inspections, we’ll let you know if a structural engineer is truly needed based on your home’s construction type. Otherwise, our architect-led team can handle most structural evaluations without the added cost or complexity of engineering involvement.
Looking for more information on this topic?
Take a look at these resources:
- What Are the Differences and Similarities Between Architects and Structural Engineers?
- Structural Engineer vs. Architect
- Structural Engineer vs Architect: What’s the Difference?
Need STRUCTURAL help on your home?
We want to help solve your home’s structural issues.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Let Small Issues Become Big Problems
If you’re seeing signs of structural distress or just want to make sure your home is built to last acting early is key. A professional evaluation from a licensed architect can help you avoid unnecessary repairs, navigate future renovations, or close with confidence on a real estate deal.
At Arch Inspections, we believe in inspections that go beyond surface-level checklists. We offer insight, context, and solutions—so you can protect what matters most.
