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Frequently Asked Questions
Do you really have licensed engineers in-house, and what is their role in the process?
Yes. Spacial has licensed engineers in-house, including licensed structural engineers and a licensed architect. Our AI helps accelerate early production and coordination, but licensed engineers remain fully responsible for the final outcome. Every structural plan, structural calculation, MEP layout, and energy set is reviewed, validated, and stamped by a licensed professional before it is delivered for permit submittal.
How does your AI work?
Our AI works in the background to speed things up and cut down on mistakes. It sits between your architectural drawings and our engineering team, helping turn your plans into coordinated structural, mechanical, electrical, and energy options much faster than a traditional process.
The AI helps us check codes, size systems, and spot likely conflicts early, before plans ever reach the city. That lets us move faster and avoid the back-and-forth that usually causes delays.
Once that first pass is done, our licensed engineers step in to review, refine, and make the final decisions. In simple terms, AI helps us work smarter and faster, but people stay fully in charge. Every plan is reviewed, approved, and stamped by experienced engineers who are responsible for the final result.
What does Spacial do, and do you cover structural engineering?
Spacial is your one engineering partner for residential projects. We provide structural engineering services, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, plumbing engineering, and energy compliance in one coordinated workflow so you do not have to manage handoffs across multiple firms. That includes stamped structural plans, structural calculations, permit-ready structural plans, and coordinated MEP and energy sets reviewed by licensed engineers. Spacial acts as a structural engineering company and engineering partner for architects, builders, and developers who want a faster path to permit-ready delivery.
What's included in your fixed-fee proposal?
Our proposal includes a complete set of stamped, permit-ready plans covering the full scope of agreed-upon services, whether it's standalone structural engineering, full MEP design and Title 24 compliance, or a complete package. There are no hidden fees or surprises.
What is the revision process like if I make a change to my design?
A: Our process is built for iteration. When you submit a design change, our system automatically flags the affected engineering components. Updated MEP and structural plans are regenerated in a fraction of the time a traditional firm would take, keeping your project moving forward.
Can Spacial coordinate directly with city reviewers?
Yes, we see ourselves as your partner in securing permit approval. Our team can coordinate with city reviewers to clarify any questions regarding our structural or MEP designs, including specifics on SWPPP requirements, building setbacks, or material specifications.
How quickly can Spacial deliver an engineering set?
On average, sets are delivered within 7 to 10 business days. We provide precise quotes and delivery timelines within 24 hours of receiving your architectural plans. To read more about our process, click here.
How do you handle complex site requirements like hydrology and grading?
We handle them comprehensively. Our process begins by incorporating all relevant site data, including the topographic survey and geotechnical reports. Our teams are proficient in hydrology, BMPs, and developing a stormwater pollution prevention plan (swppp) to meet local regulations. We ensure the grading plan and foundation design are perfectly suited to the site’s unique conditions.
How does your AI platform work with architectural plans?
Our proprietary platform is designed for seamless integration. It can analyze architectural CAD files or even convert 2D to 3D plans to identify the most efficient structural and mechanical routes. For example, our system can take your floor plans and intelligently convert floor plans to MEP, generating an initial layout for our engineers to refine, ensuring optimal duct design and system placement.
What does "builder-led engineering" mean for my project?
It means your plans are designed to be built efficiently in the real world. Our leadership's background as custom home builders allows us to evaluate load paths, MEP system integration, and field feasibility to prevent the costly rework and delays common with traditional engineering.