Do I Need A Structural Letter To Support A Renovation Permit In Calgary?

Do I Need A Structural Letter To Support A Renovation Permit In Calgary?

Yes, if your renovation includes any changes to a home’s structural components—such as altering or removing load-bearing walls, modifying beams or columns, or changing the foundation—a structural letter from a licensed professional engineer (P.Eng.) is typically required. This letter ensures that your renovation meets building code standards and helps secure your permit from the City of Calgary. At Calgary Structural Engineers, we routinely provide structural letters and documentation to support home renovation permits, giving homeowners confidence their projects meet city and safety standards.

What Is a Structural Letter?

Definition and Purpose

A structural letter is a formal document prepared by a licensed professional engineer that verifies the structural integrity of proposed changes or existing conditions in a building. It’s often submitted with permit applications or during inspections.

Key Elements Included

• Summary of the scope of structural work
• Evaluation of structural systems (walls, beams, columns, foundation)
• Compliance with applicable building codes
• Engineer’s stamp and signature

When Is a Structural Letter Required in Calgary?

Common Renovation Scenarios

You may need a structural letter for:

• Removing or altering load-bearing walls
• Cutting new openings in walls or floors
• Reinforcing or modifying foundations
• Installing large windows or skylights
• Attic or basement renovations involving framing changes

City of Calgary Requirements

The City of Calgary requires engineering documentation—such as Schedule B and Schedule C letters—whenever a structural element is being modified. A structural letter helps fulfill these requirements.

Who Can Provide a Structural Letter?

Only Licensed Engineers

Only professional engineers (P.Eng.) licensed with APEGA (Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of Alberta) are legally allowed to issue structural letters. This ensures technical competence and legal responsibility.

Why Hire a Local Calgary Engineer

• Familiar with local codes and permitting processes
• Can coordinate inspections quickly
• Ensures documentation is accepted without delay

How the Structural Letter Supports Your Renovation Permit

Role in Permit Applications

The structural letter helps your permit application meet technical review requirements. It assures the City that your design is safe and code-compliant.

Prevents Delays and Rejections

Submitting a structural letter with your renovation drawings can prevent back-and-forth with city reviewers, reducing delays.

Required for Inspections and Final Approvals

During construction, the city may require a final inspection to confirm structural work was completed per the approved plans. A structural letter can support this final verification.

Calgary Structural Engineers’ Process for Structural Letters

1. Site Visit and Assessment

We begin with a site visit to evaluate the existing structure and scope of changes.

2. Engineering Analysis

Our team reviews your architectural drawings, construction details, and any relevant measurements or conditions.

3. Letter Preparation

We prepare a formal structural letter that outlines our findings, recommendations, and design compliance.

4. Coordination With City Officials

We assist you in submitting the letter to the City of Calgary as part of your renovation permit package.

5. Construction Support and Final Documentation

We offer follow-up inspections and can issue a Schedule C letter if required by city inspectors for final occupancy approval.

Benefits of Getting a Structural Letter

Ensures Safety and Structural Integrity

A structural letter confirms that your renovation won’t compromise your home’s safety or structural stability.

Meets Legal and Municipal Requirements

It helps you satisfy building permit conditions, especially for structural changes.

Provides Peace of Mind

Knowing a licensed professional has reviewed your project gives you and your contractor clarity and confidence.

Supports Financing and Insurance

Some lenders and insurance companies require professional documentation for property upgrades.

6 Common Questions About Structural Letters for Renovations in Calgary

Is a structural letter required for all renovations?No. Only renovations that involve structural elements—like walls, floors, or foundations—require a structural letter. Cosmetic changes like flooring or cabinetry do not.

Can I submit the structural letter myself?Yes, homeowners can submit structural letters to the City of Calgary as part of their permit package, but the letter must be prepared by a licensed engineer.

Does every structural letter include a site visit?Not always, but in most cases, a site visit is recommended to ensure accurate evaluation of existing conditions before issuing the letter.

What’s the difference between a structural letter and a structural report?A structural letter is a concise document verifying specific structural concerns. A report is more detailed, often covering comprehensive analysis and multiple components.

How long does it take to get a structural letter?Turnaround time varies, but Calgary Structural Engineers can typically issue a structural letter within 3–5 business days after a site visit.

Can a contractor write or sign a structural letter?No. Only a licensed professional engineer can prepare and sign structural letters. A contractor may assist with construction, but cannot legally certify structural integrity.

Final Thoughts

So, do you need a structural letter to support a renovation permit in Calgary? If your renovation involves any change to structural components—yes, you do. A structural letter provides the city with the technical assurance it needs to approve your permit and ensures your project complies with the Alberta Building Code. Calgary Structural Engineers provides fast, professional structural letters that help streamline the permitting process and keep your renovation project on track.

Calgary Structural Engineers is a trusted choice for residential structural engineering services in Calgary, Alberta. You can request a quote by calling us or requesting one online:

Request A Quote Online: https://calgarystructuralengineers.ca/request-a-quote

Call Us For A Quote: (587) 355-2031

‍