At Lotfi & Associates we offer over 25 years of experience in engineering and analysis. We provide structural design and calculation for varius residential buildings including: Retaining walls Hillside Foundation Decks, Patio cover and other backyard structures We provide construction support, structural observations and reports. In addition, we provide Civil Engineering services design and analysis for new site development, grading, erosion and drainage plans. All design and analysis will be completed for submittal to the local City for applicable permits. What makes us apart is that we pay close attention to each client giving them one on one service and advise them in their needs.
"On time service, professional and reliable"
Matt H on February 2015
At Lotfi & Associates we offer over 25 years of experience in engineering and analysis. We provide structural design and calculation for varius residential buildings including: Retaining walls Hillside Foundation Decks, Patio cover and other backyard structures We provide construction support, structural observations and reports. In addition, we provide Civil Engineering services design and analysis for new site development, grading, erosion and drainage plans. All design and analysis will be completed for submittal to the local City for applicable permits. What makes us apart is that we pay close attention to each client giving them one on one service and advise them in their needs.
"On time service, professional and reliable"
Matt H on February 2015
We are a locally owned and operated company with years worth of experience in structural engineering. We continue to build upon our excellent reputation by serving you with superior results and complete satisfaction. Please call us for all of your structural engineering needs!
"It was great working with Kyle! He was very knowledgeable and answered all of my structural questions about my condo. I’d be happy to work with him again on my future projects!"
Qiana B on May 2025
We are a locally owned and operated company with years worth of experience in structural engineering. We continue to build upon our excellent reputation by serving you with superior results and complete satisfaction. Please call us for all of your structural engineering needs!
"It was great working with Kyle! He was very knowledgeable and answered all of my structural questions about my condo. I’d be happy to work with him again on my future projects!"
Qiana B on May 2025
Our firm provides structural engineering support for all phases in the design and construction process. Our primary function is to create structural plan packages for submission to the governing authority. We are also available to conduct preliminary field visits and structural observations during construction. In whichever service you need, we pride ourselves in carrying out the job professionally, quickly, and for an affordable price.
"I searched many and started off with others and nobody came close in handling what we needed. I found Richard, he came in and took care of it all; it was completed in a timely manner with his accurate thinking. He definitely thought ahead and it saved me a lot of time, grief and money. He got ahead of any issues and resolved potential problems that could arise. He knew exactly what the city would require and did what needed to be done which saved us an untold amount of time and money. I did not know him from Adam, he works at a very different level of ability and knowledge. His pricing for me was the best! He is a gem, get him if you can!"
Constantine P on January 2020
Our firm provides structural engineering support for all phases in the design and construction process. Our primary function is to create structural plan packages for submission to the governing authority. We are also available to conduct preliminary field visits and structural observations during construction. In whichever service you need, we pride ourselves in carrying out the job professionally, quickly, and for an affordable price.
"I searched many and started off with others and nobody came close in handling what we needed. I found Richard, he came in and took care of it all; it was completed in a timely manner with his accurate thinking. He definitely thought ahead and it saved me a lot of time, grief and money. He got ahead of any issues and resolved potential problems that could arise. He knew exactly what the city would require and did what needed to be done which saved us an untold amount of time and money. I did not know him from Adam, he works at a very different level of ability and knowledge. His pricing for me was the best! He is a gem, get him if you can!"
Constantine P on January 2020
We specialize in home designs, architectural plans and structural drawings for new homes and ADUs, and helping customers get building permits fast. We've been licensed professional engineers in California for over 20 years. We pride ourselves on the quality of our work as well as our commitment to outstanding results. We look forward to building lasting relationships and guaranteeing your satisfaction!
"Hired Pacific Sands after we lost our home in the Eaton Fires in Altadena. We were very happy with their team and the designs they finished for us. Their permitting team was amazing too, so happy they were able to help with that part of the process. too. "
Anna H on May 2025
We specialize in home designs, architectural plans and structural drawings for new homes and ADUs, and helping customers get building permits fast. We've been licensed professional engineers in California for over 20 years. We pride ourselves on the quality of our work as well as our commitment to outstanding results. We look forward to building lasting relationships and guaranteeing your satisfaction!
"Hired Pacific Sands after we lost our home in the Eaton Fires in Altadena. We were very happy with their team and the designs they finished for us. Their permitting team was amazing too, so happy they were able to help with that part of the process. too. "
Anna H on May 2025
Peter T. Erdelyi and his office of 15 employees have designed thousands of residential and commercial projects over the past 37 years - remodels, additions and new buildings
"Quoted one price and kept asking for more money. They only came to the house once, and any changes I had to make (because they didn't have all the information) they changed me more."
Dominic M on July 2023
Peter T. Erdelyi and his office of 15 employees have designed thousands of residential and commercial projects over the past 37 years - remodels, additions and new buildings
"Quoted one price and kept asking for more money. They only came to the house once, and any changes I had to make (because they didn't have all the information) they changed me more."
Dominic M on July 2023
Welcome to Standley Structural Design, proudly servicing Sherman Oaks, and the surrounding areas. Our goal is to complete your project to perfection. We look forward to building long lasting relationships with the customers that we serve. We look forward to serving you. Call us today! You will not be disappointed. We are a Los Angeles based structural design team of qualified and licensed Civil Engineers. We can assist you in effective assessment and design whether your home is in need of repairs, you are looking to renovate or build an addition, or you are looking to build a new home from scratch. We serve the entire state of California. We know the most important thing we can do is design efficient, easy to construct systems, and get them back to you in a workable amount of time. We pride ourselves in thorough and effective designs gotten back to you in time to not delay your projects.
"punctual . professional and pleasant."
ELLEY L on February 2021
Welcome to Standley Structural Design, proudly servicing Sherman Oaks, and the surrounding areas. Our goal is to complete your project to perfection. We look forward to building long lasting relationships with the customers that we serve. We look forward to serving you. Call us today! You will not be disappointed. We are a Los Angeles based structural design team of qualified and licensed Civil Engineers. We can assist you in effective assessment and design whether your home is in need of repairs, you are looking to renovate or build an addition, or you are looking to build a new home from scratch. We serve the entire state of California. We know the most important thing we can do is design efficient, easy to construct systems, and get them back to you in a workable amount of time. We pride ourselves in thorough and effective designs gotten back to you in time to not delay your projects.
"punctual . professional and pleasant."
ELLEY L on February 2021
Your Trusted Local Landscaping Experts 🌿 We provide comprehensive landscaping services, from design and installation to ongoing maintenance. As a family-owned and locally operated business with over 25 years of experience, we take pride in handling every project in-house—never subcontracting—to ensure the highest quality and attention to detail. ✅ Licensed, Insured & Bonded ✅ Workman’s Compensation Coverage ✅ Free Estimates on All Services Get in touch today by phone or email—we’d love to bring your landscaping vision to life!
"These people will not reply after I took the time to send photos and explain the job. THEY DO NOT WANT TO WORK"
Andre S on June 2024
Your Trusted Local Landscaping Experts 🌿 We provide comprehensive landscaping services, from design and installation to ongoing maintenance. As a family-owned and locally operated business with over 25 years of experience, we take pride in handling every project in-house—never subcontracting—to ensure the highest quality and attention to detail. ✅ Licensed, Insured & Bonded ✅ Workman’s Compensation Coverage ✅ Free Estimates on All Services Get in touch today by phone or email—we’d love to bring your landscaping vision to life!
"These people will not reply after I took the time to send photos and explain the job. THEY DO NOT WANT TO WORK"
Andre S on June 2024
Landscaper and Gardner for over 30 years. I work in all the Greater Los Angeles areas. Specialize in: -Lawn Care -Mowing -Landscape Maintenance -Gardening -Irrigation repair -Tree Trimming - brushing cleaning. Grass replacement and install. Call or text us directly at (323) 717-8007.
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María c on October 2024
Landscaper and Gardner for over 30 years. I work in all the Greater Los Angeles areas. Specialize in: -Lawn Care -Mowing -Landscape Maintenance -Gardening -Irrigation repair -Tree Trimming - brushing cleaning. Grass replacement and install. Call or text us directly at (323) 717-8007.
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María c on October 2024
At HavenHub, we're more than just a home service company – we're your trusted partner in creating havens of comfort and joy. Specializing in several verticals such as Landscaping, Roofing and HVAC solutions, we bring expertise and dedication to every project we undertake. What sets us apart is our commitment to putting our customers first. From the moment you engage us, you'll receive a world class experience with us. Whether it's transforming your outdoor space into a lush oasis or ensuring your indoor climate is just right, we're here to make it happen. At HavenHub, your satisfaction and peace of mind are our top priorities, and we're honored to be a part of your home journey. Welcome to the HavenHub family, where your home is our passion.
"Do not be fooled by the positive reviews. It’s evident they are paying for reviews or having their buddies create fake ones. We had a lackluster experience with Haven Hub. I’m giving them two stars bc the job eventually got done, but I wouldn’t recommend them. Poor communication, project manager changes with no notice, and unprofessionalism made the process frustrating. (I have an endless list of things that went wrong but only 1000 words.) Contractors tried to upsell us under the table for work already in our contract, and the concrete wasn’t poured to spec. Crews didn’t show up for weeks; they left a dirt pile that got us warning from the city. Sprinklers in the park strip were initially promised by the salesman, then left out of his poor drawing. Even when we scheduled a final wrap-up date, they didn’t show. The park strip was never finished, despite many promises to do so. We signed March 5 and didn’t finish until May 29 — nearly three months when it should’ve taken weeks"
Kadee Maria Knupfer G on June 2025
At HavenHub, we're more than just a home service company – we're your trusted partner in creating havens of comfort and joy. Specializing in several verticals such as Landscaping, Roofing and HVAC solutions, we bring expertise and dedication to every project we undertake. What sets us apart is our commitment to putting our customers first. From the moment you engage us, you'll receive a world class experience with us. Whether it's transforming your outdoor space into a lush oasis or ensuring your indoor climate is just right, we're here to make it happen. At HavenHub, your satisfaction and peace of mind are our top priorities, and we're honored to be a part of your home journey. Welcome to the HavenHub family, where your home is our passion.
"Do not be fooled by the positive reviews. It’s evident they are paying for reviews or having their buddies create fake ones. We had a lackluster experience with Haven Hub. I’m giving them two stars bc the job eventually got done, but I wouldn’t recommend them. Poor communication, project manager changes with no notice, and unprofessionalism made the process frustrating. (I have an endless list of things that went wrong but only 1000 words.) Contractors tried to upsell us under the table for work already in our contract, and the concrete wasn’t poured to spec. Crews didn’t show up for weeks; they left a dirt pile that got us warning from the city. Sprinklers in the park strip were initially promised by the salesman, then left out of his poor drawing. Even when we scheduled a final wrap-up date, they didn’t show. The park strip was never finished, despite many promises to do so. We signed March 5 and didn’t finish until May 29 — nearly three months when it should’ve taken weeks"
Kadee Maria Knupfer G on June 2025
Alpha Structural, Inc. has over 850 years of combined technical experience in Foundation and Hillside Repair. All of our experience is hard-core and down-in-the-trenches – not managed from behind a computer. Our in-house engineers and technicians are among the most experienced in all of Southern California. Alpha Structural, Inc. is the ONLY company in the SOCAL area licensed to ENGINEER and BUILD any type of repair project. That means that you'll work with us through the whole project, not unknown sub-contractors that you didn't hire and cannot control or predict. Alpha Structural, Inc. a licensed, bonded, and insured contractor (license # 663409). We are licensed with the following classifications: A (General Engineering Contractor). B (General Building Contractor). C-8 (Concrete). HIC (Home Improvement Contractor). CALL US NOW FOR AN INSPECTION OR ESTIMATE! (323)258-5482.
"I worked with Alpha once before, and they assisted with a second project 2 years ago which, now finally completed, I'm able to write a review about. Alpha helped with structural plans for windows in a garden level unit in order to prepare the proposal for city approval. Alpha is a big company and it took them a little while to complete everything; however I can certainly say that the engineer and contact people were knowledgeable and thorough. The plans were approved with their help and now that the unit is permitted for occupancy, the windows are a lovely attribute to the space."
Robert N on September 2024
Alpha Structural, Inc. has over 850 years of combined technical experience in Foundation and Hillside Repair. All of our experience is hard-core and down-in-the-trenches – not managed from behind a computer. Our in-house engineers and technicians are among the most experienced in all of Southern California. Alpha Structural, Inc. is the ONLY company in the SOCAL area licensed to ENGINEER and BUILD any type of repair project. That means that you'll work with us through the whole project, not unknown sub-contractors that you didn't hire and cannot control or predict. Alpha Structural, Inc. a licensed, bonded, and insured contractor (license # 663409). We are licensed with the following classifications: A (General Engineering Contractor). B (General Building Contractor). C-8 (Concrete). HIC (Home Improvement Contractor). CALL US NOW FOR AN INSPECTION OR ESTIMATE! (323)258-5482.
"I worked with Alpha once before, and they assisted with a second project 2 years ago which, now finally completed, I'm able to write a review about. Alpha helped with structural plans for windows in a garden level unit in order to prepare the proposal for city approval. Alpha is a big company and it took them a little while to complete everything; however I can certainly say that the engineer and contact people were knowledgeable and thorough. The plans were approved with their help and now that the unit is permitted for occupancy, the windows are a lovely attribute to the space."
Robert N on September 2024
The timeline for basement ceiling modifications spans four to 12 weeks, with the specific duration depending on your chosen method and project complexity. Floor-lowering projects often require more time due to careful excavation and foundation reinforcement processes.Â
Weather conditions, permit processing, and unexpected structural discoveries can extend the projected timeline. Most homeowners should prepare for some disruption to normal household activities during critical construction phases.
Converting previously unusable basement space into a functional living area often increases your home's assessed value, which may impact property tax obligations. Tax assessment practices vary significantly between municipalities, with some jurisdictions basing calculations on finished square footage.Â
To avoid surprises, contact your local tax assessment office before beginning construction to understand potential tax implications and budget accordingly for any anticipated increases.
Engaging a qualified structural engineer represents an essential first step for any basement ceiling project. These professionals evaluate foundation integrity, soil conditions, and load-bearing requirements to determine feasibility and recommend appropriate approaches.Â
Their expertise helps prevent potentially catastrophic structural issues while ensuring compliance with building codes. Although this consultation adds to initial expenses, it provides crucial guidance that may prevent costly mistakes or safety hazards.
Historic or aging properties present unique challenges when modifying basement ceiling heights. Older construction methods, outdated materials, and accumulated settlement issues require specialized assessment. Heritage designations may impose additional restrictions or requirements on modification approaches.Â
House-raising often provides advantages for older homes with compromised foundations, as it allows simultaneous foundation repair or replacement during the ceiling height modification process.
While professional contractors must handle all structural modifications, homeowners with appropriate skills may complete certain finishing aspects independently. Tasks potentially suitable for DIY include non-structural elements like painting, trim installation, or basic finishing work.Â
However, all excavation, foundation modification, and house-lifting operations require specialized equipment and expertise. Attempting structural work without proper qualifications creates significant safety risks and potential property damage.