Why Must Engineers Sign and Seal Reports? (Video)

“Hi, my name is Greg Batista here to answer another question from the internet.

LegalLou asks: Why do engineers always sign and seal their reports?

The engineer’s seal is more than a stamp — it’s a legal declaration. In Florida, when a professional engineer signs and seals a report, they are certifying that the work was done under their supervision and meets state standards. It also makes them legally accountable for errors. Without a seal, a report has no standing with building departments. The Florida Board of Professional Engineers warns that misuse of the seal can result in fines up to $5,000 per violation and disciplinary action. So when you see an engineer’s seal, it’s not decoration — it’s their professional reputation and legal liability on the line.

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Authoritative references: Florida Statute Chapter 471; Florida Administrative Code Rule 61G15.

The author, Greg Batista, PE, CGC, SI is owner of G. Batista Engineering & Construction and is a nationally-recognized engineer and contractor with more than 35 years of experience and offices in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.