All posts by schembriengineers.com

Navigating Growth and Quality with Expert Engineering

Mesa, Arizona, is a vibrant and rapidly expanding city, continuously drawing new businesses, developers, and investors. From sprawling industrial parks to bustling retail centers and innovative mixed-use developments, commercial construction in Mesa is thriving. But with growth comes complexity, and ensuring the safety, efficiency, and longevity of any commercial project requires a deep understanding of local regulations, environmental factors, and cutting-edge engineering principles.

At Schembri Engineers, a family-run firm with over four decades of experience, we understand the unique landscape of commercial building construction in Mesa, Arizona. Our mission is to be your trusted partner, providing the expert engineering solutions needed to turn your vision into a robust reality.

The Unique Challenges of Commercial Construction in Mesa

Building in Mesa presents its own set of considerations:

• Desert Climate Impact: Extreme temperatures, intense sunlight, and occasional flash floods necessitate specialized HVAC, drainage, and material selections to ensure building durability and energy efficiency.
• Expansive Soils: Like many areas in Arizona, Mesa can have expansive soils that require careful foundation design and geotechnical analysis to prevent costly structural issues down the line.
• Local Zoning & Building Codes: Navigating Mesa’s specific zoning ordinances, permitting processes, and building codes is crucial for project approval and compliance. An experienced local engineer can save you significant time and resources.
• Infrastructure Demands: As Mesa grows, the demand on existing utilities and infrastructure increases. Designing robust mechanical, plumbing, and electrical systems that integrate seamlessly is paramount.

How Expert Engineering Ensures Project Success

This is where the right engineering partner makes all the difference. Schembri Engineers offers a comprehensive suite of services essential for any commercial building construction project in Mesa:

1. Civil Engineering & Site Planning

Our civil engineers understand Mesa’s terrain and regulations, providing essential services like site grading, drainage design, utility layouts, and stormwater management. We ensure your commercial property is perfectly prepared for construction and functions efficiently within its environment.

2. Structural Engineering & Integrity

The backbone of any commercial building is its structure. Our structural engineers specialize in designing resilient foundations, robust framing systems, and assessing load-bearing capabilities. We address unique Mesa challenges like expansive soils and ensure your building can withstand the elements and serve its purpose for decades.

3. Mechanical, Plumbing & Electrical (MEP) Design

For optimal functionality and energy efficiency in Mesa’s climate, precise MEP design is non-negotiable. From high-performance HVAC systems to reliable plumbing networks and safe, efficient electrical layouts, our experts ensure your building’s operational systems are top-tier and code-compliant.

4. Specialized Inspections & Evaluations

Throughout the construction process, independent oversight is invaluable. Schembri Engineers provides special inspections, construction monitoring, and forensic investigations. We act as your eyes and ears, verifying that construction adheres to design specifications and building codes, mitigating risks and preventing costly defects. Our Board Certified Building Inspection Engineers bring unparalleled expertise to every evaluation.

Choose a Local Partner You Can Trust

With over 15,000 satisfied clients and recognition like the 2023 Angi Super Service Award, Schembri Engineers has a proven track record of excellence across Arizona. Our family-run firm is dedicated to the success of your commercial project in Mesa. We combine decades of experience with a commitment to sustainable and innovative solutions, ensuring your investment is sound and your building is built to last.

Ready to Build in Mesa?

Don’t leave the success of your commercial construction project to chance. Partner with engineers who understand Mesa’s unique demands and can guide you from conception to completion with precision and integrity.

Contact Schembri Engineers today for a free consultation and let’s build Mesa’s future together!

• Engineering & Design Services: Dave@SchembriEngineers.com | (602) 399-3255
• Inspection & Evaluation Services: Phil@SchembriEngineers.com | (602) 993-6699
• Visit Our Website: schembriengineers.com

---

If you’re planning a new home build in Cave Creek, AZ, the answer is YES—often. With unique terrain, zoning, and soil conditions, civil engineering expertise ensures your project stays structurally sound, permits don’t get held up, and budget surprises stay at bay. At Schembri Engineers, our family-owned Cave Creek firm offers integrated civil, structural, MEP design, and inspection services—so your build starts right the first time. Schembri Engineers

---

When a Civil Engineer Makes a Difference in Cave Creek

1. Site-Specific Design for Rugged Terrain

Cave Creek features rocky grades and desert washes—uneven or unpredictable ground that needs engineered grading, drainage, and foundation planning. Schembri Engineers specializes in civil design tailored to these local landscapes.

2. Storm Preparedness & Drainage Planning

While dry most of the year, Arizona’s monsoon season can quickly overwhelm improperly designed sites. A civil engineer designs land grading and drainage that redirect heavy runoff safely and effectively.

3. Cut Time & Cost on Permitting

Proper zoning, floodplain setback, and grading regs vary across Cave Creek and surrounding Phoenix municipalities. Schembri Engineers—licensed and experienced—knows the codes and navigates them smoothly.

4. Foundation Safety & Soil Evaluation

One of the biggest mistakes in new home construction? Ignoring the soil. From rocky outcrops to shifting surfaces, proper evaluation ensures foundations don’t crack or settle. Schembri Engineers delivers site-specific advice rooted in decades of local projects.

5. Coordination Across Disciplines

A modern build isn’t just about site layout—it requires civil, structural, MEP, and electrical coordination. Schembri Engineers offers all of these services under one roof, with sealed plans for seamless integration.

6. Optional Inspection & Monitoring Services

Need confidence your build is going exactly as planned? Schembri provides special inspections, construction monitoring, and building forensics to catch issues early.

---

Why Cave Creek Residents Trust Schembri Engineers

Feature	Benefit
Established Family-Owned Business	Delivering reliable engineering since 1985, with over 15,000 satisfied clients across AZ and NV.
Board-Certified Inspection Engineers	One of the only BIECI-certified firms in Arizona.
Integrated Civil, Structural, MEP & Inspection Services	From grading plans to electrical layouts and inspection, all in one cohesive package.
Award-Winning Service	Recognized with the 2023 Angi Super Service Award and top review ratings across platforms.

---

When to Engage a Civil Engineer for Your Cave Creek Build

1. During site scouting & design development — to plan layout around drainage, slope, and soil.
2. Before permit submission — to align with local code and excavation standards.
3. During construction — for monitoring and special inspections.
4. Prior to final grading or landscaping — to seal project integrity.

---

Ready to Build with Confidence?

If you’re breaking ground in Cave Creek, let Schembri Engineers guide your project safely and smartly. Contact Dave for Design & Engineering at (602) 399-3255 / Dave@SchembriEngineers.com or Phil for Inspection & Evaluation at (602) 993-6699 / Phil@SchembriEngineers.com.

Avoid costly mistakes in your next Scottsdale project by partnering with local experts early. From drainage oversights to incorrect grading, even minor missteps can lead to major expenses. At Schembri Engineers, we help Scottsdale and Phoenix clients avoid common pitfalls—and save thousands in the process.

---

Why Knowing These Mistakes Can Save You Money

Construction and design projects are expensive, but errors in civil engineering services—especially for residential or commercial properties—can dramatically increase costs through delays, permit issues, or even structural damage. Here’s what to watch for:

---

1. Overlooking Drainage and Flooding Risks

In Scottsdale’s unique desert terrain, insufficient drainage planning can lead to erosion, property damage, and expensive retrofit work. A proper site analysis and grading design—handled by Schembri Engineers—ensures water flows safely away from homes and foundations.

---

2. Improper Site Grading

Uneven slope calculations or failure to account for runoff paths often require costly regrading or stormwater corrections later. Our civil design and analysis team designs proper grading plans that protect your investment from top to bottom schembriengineers.com.

---

3. Skipping Local Code & Zoning Review

Arizona has specific requirements for flood zones, setbacks, and building loads. At Schembri Engineers—serving Scottsdale, Phoenix, Mesa, and beyond—we stay current on local building codes to ensure a smooth permitting process schembriengineers.com.

---

4. Underestimating Soil and Foundation Conditions

Failing to assess soil type—especially in sandy or rocky areas—can lead to foundation settling or expensive change orders. We conduct site-specific evaluations to match your foundation design with Scottsdale’s subsurface conditions.

---

5. Neglecting Structural Mobility and Expansion

High desert conditions mean significant temperature fluctuations. Without proper allowances, materials can warp or crack. We design expansion joints and movement considerations into our civil and structural plans to protect long-term integrity.

---

6. Mistaking Structural Design for Civil Design Needs

Civil design covers infrastructure like drainage, grading, and site layout—while structural focuses on load-bearing components. Fortunately, Schembri Engineers offers both, so your project stays coordinated and integrated from site to structure schembriengineers.com.

---

Why Scottsdale Homeowners and Businesses Trust Schembri Engineers

• 4+ decades of family-run reliability — we’ve served over 15,000 clients across Arizona and Nevada.schembriengineers.com
• Award-winning services — including the 2023 Angi Super Service Award.schembriengineers.com
• Local expertise — deep familiarity with Scottsdale’s unique building codes, terrain, and environmental challenges.
• Comprehensive engineering solutions — civil, structural, mechanical, plumbing, and electrical design under one roof.schembriengineers.com

---

Simple Steps to Avoid These Costly Mistakes

Step	Action
1⃣	Start with a free consultation—locally hosted by Schembri Engineers in Scottsdale.
2⃣	Request a site-specific evaluation and grading/drainage plan.
3⃣	Ask for soil/foundation conditions analysis.
4⃣	Confirm zoning, flood, and permits during the planning phase.
5⃣	Maintain proactive coordination between civil and structural needs.

---

Ready to Protect Your Investment?

Contact Schembri Engineers today and get a free project review and risk assessment for your Scottsdale site. Avoid design traps and ensure your project stays on track—without the surprises.

Schembri Engineers: Community-rooted, expert-led civil and structural engineering in Scottsdale, Phoenix, Mesa, and across Arizona. Let’s build right the first time.

DOWNLOAD PRE CONSTRUCTION CHECKLIST HERE

Why a Local Structural Engineer Matters for Your Arizona Addition

Deciding to add space to your home is exciting—but it comes with significant structural decisions. In Arizona’s unique climate, soil conditions, and building codes, it’s essential to work with a structural engineer who truly understands the local landscape. That’s where Schembri Engineers, a trusted family‑owned firm in Arizona since 1985, comes in schembriengineers.com.

Locally based in Cave Creek and proudly servicing Phoenix, Scottsdale, Mesa, Glendale, Gilbert, Peoria, and Chandler, Schembri Engineers offers unmatched expertise in structural design, foundational analysis, and residential additions across Arizona’s diverse regions.

---

Step‑by‑Step Guide: Hiring a Structural Engineer in Arizona

1. Define Your Project Scope Clearly

A good article starts with clarity—this helps rank for specific phrases like “hiring a structural engineer for a home addition Phoenix AZ”. Outline exactly what your addition entails (e.g., adding a second story, extending living space, or modifying load-bearing walls).

2. Check for Local Expertise and Licenses

Arizona’s unique soil and climate require engineers familiar with expansive clay soils and monsoon impacts. Schembri Engineers boasts:

• Over 40 years of experience
• Board‑Certified Building Inspection Engineer credentials—one of the few in Arizona
• A reputation built on 15,000+ satisfied clients

3. Review Services Offered

A well‑ranked article emphasizes a full suite of services. Schembri provides:

• Structural and Civil Engineering
• Mechanical, Plumbing & Electrical Design
• Inspection and Evaluation Services (including standard, exhaustive, and limited structural inspections)

4. Create Trust with Social Proof & Certifications

Highlight their accolades:

• Over 4 decades of trusted service
• 15,000 clients served
• 2023 Angi Super Service Award
• 5-star Yelp, 4.8 Google, and 4.7 HomeAdvisor ratings

5. Explain the Process Clearly

Offer value: “What to expect when hiring Schembri for your home addition.”

1. Initial site evaluation and assessment
2. Structural design and load analysis tailored to Arizona’s soils
3. Submission-ready plans compliant with local codes
4. Optional inspection and monitoring during construction

These steps help optimize for questions like “home addition structural engineer Phoenix process.”

6. Include an FAQ Section for Long‑Tail Query Optimization

• “How long does the process take?”: Reports typically ready in 1–2 days
• “Why choose Schembri Engineers?”: Local expertise, comprehensive services, professionalism, and fast, in‑depth reporting by licensed PEs
• “Where are you based?”: Located in Cave Creek, serving all of Arizona and Nevada

7. Encourage Local Engagement & Contact

Keep it local in-call-to-action:

• “Ready to start your home addition in Phoenix or Scottsdale?”
• Visit the Contact Us page or call (602) 399‑3255 for engineering/design inquiries (Dave), or (602) 993‑6699 for inspection/evaluation (Phil) schembriengineers.com.

A seemingly small leak can lead to major structural damage if left unchecked. At Schembri Engineers, your trusted family‑owned and operated engineering firm serving Cave Creek, Phoenix, and all across Arizona and Nevada, we’ve seen firsthand how one drip can become a disaster.

🚨 The Hidden Risks of a Single Leak

Even the smallest water leak—whether from a faulty pipe, roof breach, or HVAC condensate—can trigger:

• Foundation weakening and soil erosion, causing cracks or settlement.
• Structural rot in wood framing, weakening load‑bearing walls and supports.
• Corrosion of steel reinforcements.
• Mold growth, which compromises indoor air quality and occupant health.
• Unseen damage behind walls, leading to expensive repairs later.

Why Immediate Inspection Matters

At Schembri Engineers, we emphasize early intervention. Our licensed Professional Engineers conduct thorough inspections—visual and invasive if needed—to catch issues before they escalate. We’ve performed over 15,000 inspections and designs and count on a reputation built over four decades of excellence Better Business.

A timely report can protect your building investment, maintain safety, and ensure compliance with Arizona building codes.

How Schembri Engineers Help When a Leak is Suspected

When we diagnose a suspected leak, our process includes:

1. Visual inspection of all accessible areas: roofs, ceilings, crawlspaces, foundations.
2. Targeted invasive testing, if required for moisture or material deterioration.
3. Structural analysis, confirming load‑bearing capacity hasn’t been compromised.
4. Comprehensive, easy‑to‑understand reporting, including:
   • Cause of the leak
   • Areas affected
   • Recommended remedies
   • Estimated cost and timeline

Our services go beyond inspection. We offer civil, structural, mechanical, and electrical engineering design services to correct issues and prevent recurrence schembriengineers.com.

Why Trust Schembri Engineers?

• 40+ years of experience in engineering and inspections across Arizona.
• Certified by NABIE and NSPE, with one of the few Board‑Certified Building Inspection Engineers in the state.
• Recognized with multiple awards and 4.7+ stars from verified clients—HomeAdvisor and BuildZoom rates us highly.
• A local, family‑run firm headquartered in Cave Creek, run by Philip A. Schembri, PE, and Virginia A. Schembri.

🛠 Real Example: A Leak That Almost Cost Thousands

A single water leak in a ceiling may seem manageable—but at one property we inspected, a hidden rooftop leak had compromised interior wall framing and corroded steel connectors. A minor repair turned urgent, costing the owner significantly more than planned. Early detection by Schembri Engineers saved them time and prevented further structural damage.

What You Can Do Next

If you suspect a leak—even a small one—don’t wait. Contact Schembri Engineers for an inspection or evaluation:

• Cave Creek office: 5952 E Montgomery Rd
• Engineering inquiries (Dave): (602) 399‑3255 / Dave@SchembriEngineers.com
• Inspections (Philip): (602) 993‑6699 / Phil@SchembriEngineers.com

Get peace of mind that your property is safe and structurally sound—before the problem grows.

When planning a commercial building project in Phoenix, such as new construction, tenant improvements, additions, or changes of use, you must navigate the city’s detailed permitting and review process. Here’s what you need to know:

1. Building Permit & Plan Review

All commercial projects require a plan review and issuance of a commercial building permit by the City of Phoenix Planning & Development Department. Applications are submitted via the EPR Web Portal and must include architectural and structural plans prepared by a licensed engineer or architect .

2. Pre‑Application & Site Plan Approval

For new construction or large additions, a pre‑application meeting and preliminary site plan review are required before submitting building plans Phoenix. This ensures compliance with zoning, setbacks, parking, civil grading, and landscaping requirements.

3. Professional Sealed Plans

Building documents must include sealed, licensed professional drawings for structural, civil, mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems. Phoenix enforces International Building Code (IBC) standards plus local amendments Phoenix Permit Velocity.

4. Trade‑Specific Permits

Separate trade permits are required for:

• Electrical work (licensed electrician)
• Plumbing installations (licensed plumber)
• Mechanical/HVAC installations
• Grading and drainage for earthmoving or site changes
• Specialty permits such as sign permits or demolition permits 

5. Review, Fees & Inspections

Once submitted, plans undergo reviews by building, zoning, fire, and environmental departments. Plan review fees are due upon submittal, and if corrections are required, revisions must be made and resubmitted Phoenix. After approval and payment, the permit is issued and inspections scheduled throughout construction, culminating in a Certificate of Occupancy.

6. Special Environmental or Health Approvals

Depending on your project’s nature, additional approvals may include:

• Floodplain use permits
• Environmental health clearance (e.g. for food service, pools)
• Fire safety review for new construction Phoenixourtaxpartner.com

---

Why Choose Schembri Engineers for Phoenix Commercial Permits?

Schembri Engineers has provided expert engineering design, inspection, and plan review support in Phoenix since 1985. With 15,000+ clients served and more than 39 years of experience, our licensed Professional Engineers deliver fast, accurate, and reliable documentation for building permits that meet city standards,

• Licensed expertise: We prepare fully sealed structural, civil, mechanical, electrical, and plumbing plans required by Phoenix schembriengineers.com.
• Fast turnaround: Inspection and plan-review reports are delivered rapidly—typically within days of inspection schembriengineers.com.
• Full-service support: We assist with pre‑application, zoning compliance, civil grading, MEP calculations, and more to streamline your permit process.

With top ratings—a 5-star Yelp profile, 4.8 on Google, and Home Advisor Top Rated status—Schembri Engineers is recognized for integrity, thoroughness, and exceptional service schembriengineers.com.

---

SEO‑Friendly Keyword Highlights

• Phoenix commercial building permit requirements
• Commercial plan review Phoenix
• Phoenix licensed engineer building permits
• Structural, civil, electrical & mechanical plans Phoenix
• Schembri Engineers permit support Phoenix

---

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Do I always need a commercial permit for renovations?
Yes—remodels, tenant improvements, additions, or use changes in commercial buildings require permits and plan review .

Q: Can I prepare and submit plans myself?
No. Projects must include sealed plans by a licensed professional engineer or architect. Schembri Engineers offers precisely that service.

Q: How long does the permit process take?
Timeline varies: minor tenant improvements may close in under a month; full new commercial construction with site review can take several months, especially if revisions are required.

---

Getting Started: The Schembri Engineers Advantage

1. Schedule a pre‑application consultation: Our experts advise on site and zoning considerations upfront.
2. Develop professional sealed plans: We prepare civil, structural, MEP, and more in compliance with Phoenix codes.
3. Submit via EPR & SHAPE portals: We guide you through plan submission, redline response, and fee payment.
4. Support inspections & compliance: From permit issuance to final Certificate of Occupancy, we help manage inspections and approvals.

---

Conclusion

Securing commercial building permits in Phoenix involves navigating zoning rules, submitting sealed plans, paying fees, and coordinating inspections. Working with a trusted engineering firm like Schembri Engineers ensures you meet Phoenix’s building code and avoid costly delays.

For efficient, professional support through every step of your permit process—from design to approvals—contact Schembri Engineers today. Our licensed engineers bring decades of experience to every project, delivering peace of mind and compliance on time.

---

Contact Schembri Engineers
Phone: 602‑993‑6699
Email: Phil@SchembriEngineers.com (for inspections/evaluation), Dave@SchembriEngineers.com (for design/engineering)

When hiring an engineering firm in Arizona, you need a partner who understands the unique challenges of the desert environment. The best firms have decades of local experience, prioritize client communication, offer a comprehensive suite of services, and hold professional certifications. Look for a company with a proven track record, an unwavering focus on safety and quality, and a reputation for innovative problem-solving. Ultimately, the most successful firms demonstrate longevity, stability, and a deep-rooted foundation of trust with the community. These are the 10 qualities that matter most for any Arizona project.

At Schembri Engineers, we’ve spent over four decades serving the Arizona community, and we know exactly what it takes for a project to succeed here. Here are the 10 essential qualities you should look for when hiring an engineering partner for your next Arizona project.

1. Decades of Local Experience

A firm with deep roots in Arizona understands the specific environmental factors that impact construction, from the intense summer heat to the flash flooding during monsoon seasons. They’ll know how to design for expansive clay soils and work with local municipalities across the state.

2. A Commitment to Transparent Communication

The best firms in Arizona take the time to listen to your needs, explain complex technical details in simple terms, and keep you in the loop. You should feel like a partner, not a passenger, in your project.

3. A Comprehensive Suite of Services

Why hire multiple firms when you can have one trusted partner? Look for an engineering company that offers a full suite of services, including civil and structural engineering, as well as mechanical, plumbing, and electrical design. A holistic approach streamlines your project and ensures every component works together seamlessly.

4. Professional Certifications That Matter

Certifications are a mark of professional excellence. Our commitment to quality is underscored by having a Board Certified Building Inspection Engineer on our team—a credential that sets us apart and ensures every project meets the highest professional standards.

5. A Proven Track Record

Experience is everything in a state with such distinct building challenges. For over 40 years, Schembri Engineers has been the trusted choice for over 15,000 clients across Phoenix, Scottsdale, and the surrounding areas. We’ve built our reputation one successful project at a time.

6. A Focus on Safety and Quality

The primary role of an Arizona structural engineer is to ensure your building can withstand everything from a powerful dust storm to a minor tremor. A top firm prioritizes meticulous design and rigorous analysis to guarantee a safe, durable, and reliable structure.

7. Innovative Problem-Solving

Every project has unique hurdles, especially in a growing state like Arizona. The best firms don’t just follow the rules; they are creative problem-solvers who can develop innovative and cost-effective solutions for your project’s specific needs.

8. A Strong Reputation in the Arizona Building Community

A firm with a strong reputation among local builders, architects, and city officials is a firm you can trust. Schembri Engineers has cultivated strong relationships throughout the Arizona building community over many decades, a testament to our reliable and professional service.

9. Longevity and Stability

A firm that has been in business for decades demonstrates stability and a deep-rooted commitment to the community. This longevity is a promise that they’ll be here to support you for the long term and have a deep understanding of Arizona’s evolving building codes.

10. A Foundation of Trust

Ultimately, your choice comes down to trust. As a family-owned business, Schembri Engineers is built on a foundation of integrity, personal accountability, and a genuine care for the community we’ve called home for generations.

Choose Schembri Engineers for Your Next Arizona Project

If you’re looking for an engineering partner that embodies all these qualities and understands the unique landscape of Arizona, look no further.

Contact Schembri Engineers today to see how we can bring our decades of local experience and unwavering commitment to your project.

When you look at a new building, you see its beautiful facade, its functional layout, and its modern finishes. But beneath the surface lies its structural integrity. The stability and longevity of any building, from a custom home to a commercial complex, depend entirely on the principles of structural design and analysis.

At Schembri Engineers, we’ve been the trusted partner for countless builders and property owners across Arizona since 1985. We understand that our work is more than just drawing plans; it’s about creating a safe, durable, and reliable foundation for the future.

What is Structural Design?

Structural design is the art and science of shaping a building’s skeleton. It’s the process where engineers determine the most effective materials, sizes, and configurations for a structure’s components—like beams, columns, and foundations. The goal is to ensure the building can safely support all the loads it will face throughout its lifespan.

This includes:

• Static loads: The weight of the building itself and its contents.
• Dynamic loads: Forces from wind, seismic activity (earthquakes), and even heavy rainfall.
• Environmental factors: The specific challenges of Arizona’s climate, such as intense heat and shifting desert soils.

What is Structural Analysis?

If structural design is the plan, structural analysis is the critical quality check. This is the scientific, data-driven process of evaluating a proposed design. Using advanced mathematical models and software, our engineers simulate how a structure will perform under various conditions.

We analyze key factors to ensure the design is sound, including:

• Stress and Strain: Measuring how forces will affect the building’s materials.
• Load Distribution: Confirming that loads are correctly transferred through the structure to the ground.
• Deflection and Vibration: Ensuring the building won’t experience excessive movement that could compromise its integrity or comfort.

Through rigorous analysis, we can identify and correct potential weak points before construction even begins, saving time, money, and most importantly, ensuring safety.

The Schembri Engineers Difference

For over 40 years, Schembri Engineers has been a leader in Arizona’s engineering industry. Our deep understanding of structural design and analysis is just one reason why we’ve earned the trust of over 15,000 satisfied clients.

• Experience that Matters: With decades of hands-on experience, we are intimately familiar with the specific structural challenges faced by buildings in Phoenix, Scottsdale, and the surrounding regions.
• Comprehensive Expertise: As a family-owned firm, we offer a full suite of services, from civil and structural engineering to mechanical, plumbing, and electrical design, making us a one-stop-shop for your project.
• Certified and Trusted: We are home to a Board Certified Building Inspection Engineer, a designation that underscores our commitment to the highest standards of professional excellence.

Whether you’re embarking on a new construction project, planning a complex renovation, or need a forensic analysis of an existing structure, our team is equipped with the knowledge and expertise to deliver a safe and effective solution.

Don’t leave the integrity of your project to chance. Partner with a team that has a proven track record. Contact Schembri Engineers today to discuss your structural design and analysis needs.

The desert landscape of Arizona is beautiful, but it can also present unique challenges for residential properties. From shifting soils to the intense heat and monsoon moisture, your home’s structure is constantly under stress. Knowing the early warning signs of a potential problem can save you thousands of dollars and give you invaluable peace of mind.

At Schembri Engineers, we’ve been helping homeowners throughout Phoenix, Scottsdale, and the surrounding areas since 1985. Here are the top 10 signs that it may be time to call a professional structural engineer for an expert evaluation.

1. Cracks in Your Foundation, Walls, or Stucco

While hairline cracks can sometimes be cosmetic, larger or jagged cracks are a significant red flag. They can indicate soil settlement, foundation movement, or other serious structural issues that need a professional eye.

2. Doors or Windows that Stick or Won’t Close

If a door or window suddenly becomes difficult to open or close, it may be a sign of a misaligned frame caused by structural movement. Don’t just ignore it; this could be an early symptom of a shifting foundation.

3. Sagging Floors or Ceilings

A floor or ceiling that has a noticeable dip or “sag” often points to weakened or compromised support beams, joists, or trusses. This is a critical issue that requires an immediate inspection to prevent further damage.

4. Bowed or Leaning Walls

Exterior or interior walls that appear to be bowing inward or leaning outward are a clear indication of a structural problem. This can be caused by excessive pressure from the soil, a weakened foundation, or improper load-bearing support.

5. Water Intrusion or Persistent Moisture

While a plumber handles the pipes, a structural engineer can help if water is getting into your basement or crawl space. Persistent moisture can weaken a home’s foundation and lead to long-term structural damage.

6. Signs of Termite or Pest Damage

Termites and other pests can wreak havoc on wood framing, beams, and joists. After a pest control company has treated the problem, a structural engineer can assess the extent of the damage and design the necessary repairs.

7. Post-Fire or Natural Disaster Damage

If your home has experienced a fire, flood, or other disaster, a structural engineer is essential to evaluate the integrity of the remaining structure. Our forensic engineers can determine the safety of the building and design a plan for a safe rebuild.

8. Before a Major Renovation

Planning to remove a load-bearing wall, add a second story, or create an open-concept space? Before you start knocking down walls, you need a structural design from a professional to ensure your home remains safe and sound.

9. As Part of a Pre-Purchase Inspection

Before you buy a new home, a specialized structural inspection can give you complete peace of mind. Our team, which includes a Board Certified Building Inspection Engineer, can identify hidden problems that a standard home inspection might miss.

10. You’re Building a New Custom Home

A structural engineer is a crucial partner in the design phase of a new build. At Schembri Engineers, our design and engineering services ensure your custom home is built to the highest standards of safety and durability from the very beginning.

Trust Schembri Engineers with Your Home

As a family-owned business with over 40 years of experience and more than 15,000 satisfied clients, we are the trusted choice for residential structural engineering in Arizona. If you’ve noticed any of these signs, don’t wait for the problem to get worse.

Contact Schembri Engineers today to schedule a professional inspection and get the expert advice you need to protect your home.

Scottsdale is known for its beautiful homes, unique architecture, and dynamic landscape. But with extreme weather, soil shifts, and the simple passage of time, residential properties can face a variety of structural challenges. Whether you’re planning a major renovation, building a new custom home, or concerned about a crack in your foundation, having a trusted residential structural engineer in Scottsdale AZ is essential.

At Schembri Engineers, we’ve been serving Arizona for over 40 years, and we understand the unique demands of the Scottsdale housing market. We’re here to help you protect your most valuable investment.

When to Hire a Structural Engineer in Scottsdale

You might be surprised by all the reasons a homeowner might need a structural engineer. It’s not just for massive construction projects. Here are some of the most common reasons residents of Scottsdale turn to us:

• Foundation Concerns: Noticing cracks in your stucco, drywall, or concrete slab? A professional evaluation can determine if the issue is cosmetic or a symptom of a deeper structural problem.
• Home Renovations: Planning to remove a load-bearing wall, add a new story, or install a large window or door? Our team ensures your changes are structurally sound and meet all local building codes.
• Pre-Purchase Inspections: Before buying a home, an independent structural inspection can provide invaluable peace of mind and identify any hidden issues that could be costly down the line.
• Water and Termite Damage: Water intrusion or pest damage can compromise a home’s structural integrity. A structural engineer can assess the extent of the damage and design the necessary repairs.
• Building a Custom Home: A structural engineer is a critical partner in the design process, ensuring your home is built with the highest standards of safety and durability from the ground up.

The Schembri Engineers Difference

For over four decades, our family-owned firm has built a reputation for excellence, honesty, and a deep commitment to our clients. We have performed thousands of inspections and designs, earning the trust of over 15,000 satisfied clients in Arizona and Nevada.

Here’s why we are the right choice for your Scottsdale home:

• Local Expertise: We are familiar with the specific soil conditions, climate challenges, and building codes of Scottsdale and the surrounding Valley. This local knowledge is crucial for providing accurate and relevant solutions.
• Board Certified Professionals: Our team includes one of the only Board Certified Building Inspection Engineers in the country, a testament to our expertise and dedication to quality.
• Comprehensive Services: Beyond residential structural design and inspections, we offer a full suite of services, including civil, mechanical, and electrical engineering, as well as construction forensics and defect investigation.
• Award-Winning Service: We were honored with the Angi Super Service Award in 2023, a recognition of our commitment to exceptional customer service and quality work.

Protect Your Investment with Schembri Engineers

Your home is more than just a building; it’s a place where memories are made. Don’t take chances with its structural integrity. If you’re a homeowner in Scottsdale and have a structural engineering need—big or small—trust the experts who have been serving the community since 1985.

Contact Schembri Engineers today for a consultation and let our experience and commitment work for you.