Iowa Code 542 says that clients and engineers may share an equal responsibility if a problem occurs with a project that an individual has certified. Therefore, it is important that engineers working in Iowa are aware of the requirements for using Iowa engineer stamps and seals.
Laws Surrounding the Use of Iowa State Seals
It is against the law for any individual who is not licensed to claim that they are an engineer and affix Iowa engineer stamps and seals to a project. Furthermore, unless the person has the correct license, they cannot use the words “professional engineer” in any business matter including on letterheads, business cards, sign or advertisement. Iowa authorities access a civil penalty against any individual attempting to do so.
The Responsibility of the Engineer
While the primary responsibility for being able to prove that they are licensed by the state lies with the person claiming to be an engineer, clients can also be accessed a civil penalty if they knowingly hire an individual as a professional engineer who is not licensed. Complaints against a person who is claiming to be a professional engineer, but who does not hold the proper license may be filed with the Iowa Professional Licensing and Regulation Bureau. Clients who have questions about whether an individual is licensed and has the right to use Iowa engineer stamps and seals may use the bureau’s website to search by license number.
One way that professional engineers can help is by making sure that they are using Iowa engineer stamps and seals correctly. In order to apply the stamp and seal, the individual must have direct control of all personnel involved in the project. The Iowa engineer stamps and seals cannot be divided into different parts, even if it would look better on the project. Iowa engineer stamps and seals must contain the engineer’s name, the words “professional engineer” and the engineer’s license number.
The Benefits of Ordering Professional Seals
Professional engineers should make sure that their Iowa engineer stamps and seals meet all requirements by ordering from a reputable company like Acorn. This company helps professionals make sure that their Iowa stamps and seals are in compliance with the law by constantly keeping abreast of any changes to the law allowing the engineer to concentrate on their jobs of protecting public safety.
When ordering Iowa engineer stamps and seals as a way to thank you for trusting them to provide your Iowa stamps and seals, the company offers you a seal in DXF, JPG & TIF formats. Furthermore, each stamp is proudly made by workers in the United States, because the company recognizes that you want to help keep more American jobs at home.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the legal requirements for using Iowa engineer stamps and seals?
In Iowa, only a properly licensed professional engineer may use Iowa engineer stamps and seals. The seal must include the engineer’s name, the words “professional engineer,” and the engineer’s license number. It also must be used in compliance with Iowa law and under the engineer’s direct control.
How can I verify that an Iowa engineer is licensed before hiring them?
You can verify an engineer’s license through the Iowa Professional Licensing and Regulation Bureau website by searching the license number. This is one of the best ways to confirm the person has the legal right to use Iowa engineer stamps and seals before you hire them.
What are the warning signs of fraud involving Iowa engineer stamps and seals?
Common red flags include a missing or invalid license number, a seal that does not include “professional engineer,” inconsistent document signatures, altered or separated seal components, and documents issued by someone claiming to be an engineer but not listed as licensed in Iowa.
Can a client be penalized for hiring someone who is not a licensed professional engineer in Iowa?
Yes. Iowa Code 542 says clients may share responsibility if they knowingly hire someone as a professional engineer who is not properly licensed. That is why it is important to verify credentials before approving work that requires Iowa engineer stamps and seals.
What should I do if I suspect someone is using an Iowa engineer seal fraudulently?
If you suspect misuse, you can file a complaint with the Iowa Professional Licensing and Regulation Bureau. It is also smart to stop relying on the document until the engineer’s license and seal use are confirmed.
How can engineers make sure their Iowa engineer stamps and seals are compliant?
Engineers should order from a reputable company that stays current with Iowa law and produces seals with the required information. A compliant Iowa engineer stamp or seal should be complete, accurate, and used only by the licensed engineer with direct control over the project.
