Our Standard Operating Procedures: What Clients Can Expect Step-by-Step

A clear process from start to finish

Taking on a new project — whether it's building a home addition, developing a lot, or constructing a retaining wall — can feel overwhelming. At Moment Engineering, we believe in making the process simple, transparent, and predictable. That's why we've built clear Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) that guide every client from the first phone call through construction support.

Here's what the process looks like from your perspective.

Step 1 – Requesting a Quote

It all starts with you reaching out. You can call, email, or submit a request through our website.

• What we'll need from you:
• Property address and Assessor's Parcel Number (APN)
• A brief description of your project (e.g., new ADU, hillside home, grading for a pool)
• Any plans or sketches you may already have

This information helps us tailor our proposal to your project's needs.

Step 2 – Proposal & Agreement

Once we review your project details, we'll prepare a written proposal. Your proposal includes:

• Scope of services (what we'll do)
• Deliverables (reports, stamped plans, calculations)
• Timeline (how long each step will take)
• Cost (with a clear breakdown)

Before starting work, we require a 50% retainer. This ensures your project is scheduled and prioritized.

We accept checks, ACH transfers, and credit cards. Please note that all credit card payments are subject to a 3% processing fee.

Step 3 – Field Work & Investigation

This is where things get hands-on. Our team visits your site to collect the data we need. Depending on the project, this may include:

• Drilling and soil sampling
• Test pits or borings
• Visual inspection of slopes and site conditions

We coordinate access with you and make the process as smooth as possible.

Working on a project in Southern California? We can handle the engineering.

Step 4 – Analysis & Reporting

Back in the office, our engineers analyze the field and lab data. We evaluate soil strength, slope stability, drainage, and foundation conditions.

The outcome is a draft report or set of plans that includes clear recommendations. Once reviewed with you, we finalize and stamp the report for use in permitting.

The remaining balance must be collected prior to releasing any stamped reports or plans.

Step 5 – Agency Submittal & Support

Clients are responsible for submitting reports and plans directly to the city or county for review and approval.

If the jurisdiction issues comments, we'll revise the documents and provide updated versions for you to resubmit until approval is obtained.

While city submission is not a standard service we provide, in select cases we can offer limited assistance. If you're interested, let us know and we can advise on what's required.

Step 6 – Construction Support

Even after approval, our work isn't done. We provide ongoing support during construction, such as:

• Compaction testing during grading
• Footing inspections before concrete pours
• Retaining wall backfill verification
• Additional recommendations outlined in the soils report or foundation plan

It is important to discuss the necessary inspections needed with the soils engineer before construction begins. This ensures the project is built in compliance with our recommendations and city requirements.

Why this matters

Having a clear process eliminates guesswork and avoids costly mistakes. Our SOPs keep projects moving forward — on time, on budget, and in compliance.

FAQs

How long does the whole process take? For smaller projects, reports are typically completed within 3–4 weeks. Larger grading or hillside projects may take 4–6 weeks depending on scope.

Can you coordinate with my architect or contractor? Absolutely. We often work directly with architects, structural engineers, and contractors to ensure smooth integration of all design elements.

Related Service

Soils Reports & Geotechnical Investigation

We handle this for projects across Southern California.