Structural
Structural certification and sign-off
Independent structural design certification and sign-off by a registered engineer.
Describe your projectWhat it covers
Structural certification is the formal sign-off by a registered engineer that a structural design or installation complies with the relevant codes and is fit for purpose. It covers design certification for building approval, certification of structural elements and connections, Form 15 and Form 16 certification in Queensland, and the independent review that some structures require. The engineer reviews or produces the design, checks it against the loading and material standards, and issues the certificate that lets the work proceed or complete.
When you need it
You need structural certification when a building approval, a regulator or a client requires a registered engineer to certify a structural design or installation, when an element such as a mezzanine, canopy, retaining wall or steel frame needs sign-off, or when a project needs an independent structural review. It is often the gate between design and construction or occupation.
Standards, codes and tools
Commonly used tools: Spacegass, Microstran, Strand7.
What to look for
Look for an engineer who holds the registration your jurisdiction requires, which in Queensland is RPEQ, and whose competence covers your structure type. Ask exactly what they will certify and against which standards, because certification carries personal liability and a careful engineer will define the scope. Confirm their registration is current before you rely on it.
Structural certification and sign-off by city
Common questions
What is a Form 15 and a Form 16?
In Queensland, Form 15 is a compliance certificate for a design or specification, and Form 16 certifies inspection or aspects of building work. Both are signed by an appropriately registered engineer (RPEQ) and are commonly required for structural elements during building approval and certification.
Who can certify a structural design in Australia?
A registered engineer competent in the relevant area. Registration requirements vary by state: Queensland requires RPEQ, Victoria requires registration in defined areas, and other states rely on Chartered status and the National Engineering Register. Confirm the engineer holds the registration your project needs and that it is current.
Further reading
When do you need an RPEQ?
A plain-English guide to when Queensland law requires a Registered Professional Engineer (RPEQ), what is changing in 2026 and 2027, and how to check that someone is registered.
How long does structural certification take?
What structural certification involves and what drives the timeline, for project owners.
Can a Chartered Engineer certify drawings?
The difference between being Chartered (CPEng) and being able to certify or sign off work, which depends on where you are.
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