Lateral analysis is one part of structural engineering design that often gets over looked. This is often critical for custom homes, multi-story buildings, and renovations that include large openings along the exterior of a building. We have found that some local design professionals do not perform the code required lateral analysis on their projects due to time or budget constraints. This is not only risky to your investment as an owner, this is also dangerous if you are a contractor. The client should always have the ability to verify the design calculations to ensure proper lateral analysis is performed.

If you are unsure what lateral analysis is, the National Association of Certified Home Inspectors has done a great job of summarizing the procedure on its website. Please click here for more information.