Who should restorers consult with when placing large equipment on roofs or other building structures?

Consulting with a structural engineer is essential when placing large equipment on roofs or other building structures because they are specifically trained to evaluate the load-bearing capacities of structures. A structural engineer can assess if the roof or structure can support the weight of the equipment without compromising its integrity. This consideration is crucial for ensuring the safety of the building, its occupants, and the restoration process itself.

While an architect might be involved in the overall design and function of a building, their expertise typically does not extend to structural load assessments. The site manager or general contractor may have practical knowledge about construction and project management, but they may lack the specific engineering training required to evaluate structural safety. Thus, relying on a structural engineer is the best practice for ensuring that equipment placement is done safely and appropriately.