Planning a building project is exciting, but it can also feel overwhelming. One common question is: who do I actually need for my project? People often get confused about the difference between a civil engineer and a structural engineer.

The answer is simple. Civil engineers focus on the site and infrastructure, while structural engineers make sure the building itself is safe and strong. Both roles are vital, but they do very different things.

At Morgan Engineering Consultants, we provide both civil and structural engineering services across Essex, Suffolk and London. That means you get everything you need under one roof.

What Does a Civil Engineer Do?

A civil engineer designs and manages the wider site. They make sure the land and infrastructure are ready for construction.

On a housing development, this might include drainage, car parks and access roads. On a commercial project, they could design stormwater systems, site levels and connections to public utilities.

At Morgan Engineering Consultants, our civil engineering services include:

  • Drainage and SUDS: Designing soakaways, attenuation tanks and sustainable drainage systems.
  • Foundation design: Making sure the ground can support your building.
  • Site infrastructure: Planning roads, driveways, pavements and Section 38/278 agreements.

Civil engineers create the foundations of a successful project, both literally and figuratively.

What Does a Structural Engineer Do?

A structural engineer focuses on the strength and safety of the building itself. They calculate the beams, columns and supports that hold everything together.

For a home extension, they will design the beams needed if you remove a wall. For a commercial building, they will design the frame so it can carry the weight of multiple floors.

At Morgan Engineering Consultants, our structural engineering services include:

  • New build design: Structural support for houses, offices and larger developments.
  • Alterations and extensions: Designing beams and supports for wall removals or property extensions.
  • Building assessments: Checking existing properties for cracks, movement or changes.

Structural engineers make sure every building is safe, stable and built to last.

Civil vs Structural Engineering

Both roles are important, but they focus on different parts of a project:

  • Scope: Civil engineers cover the site and infrastructure. Structural engineers focus on the building itself.
  • Examples: Civil engineers design drainage, roads and external works. Structural engineers design beams, columns and foundations.
  • When to call who: Civil engineers are needed for land, drainage and access. Structural engineers are needed for buildings, walls and supports.

In most projects, the two work together. The civil engineer prepares the ground and infrastructure. The structural engineer ensures the building above it is safe.

Why Choose Morgan Engineering Consultants?

With Morgan Engineering Consultants, you do not need to choose between a civil engineer or a structural engineer. We can provide both.

This means smoother communication, fewer delays and a more efficient process. Whether you need drainage design, foundation planning or structural support, our team has you covered across Essex, Suffolk and London.

Contact us today to discuss your plans and get expert advice. Let us make your project safe, efficient and built to last.