No way to truly answer this form the limited info offered. In fact someone on site would need to verify 100% no matter what.

Depending on your location, you may need a structural engineer to sign off on it in order to get a permit. Where we used to live, definitely. Where we live now, not so sure. :-) Much lower population density where they outsource inspections. They don't seem to care as much here.

Thank you for the responses

I'd get a second opinion from a structural engineer. Better safe than sorry.

An engineer can calculate snow load, wind and other environmental conditions in your area.

If your contractor needs an engineer, he'll call one.

98% of contractors do not understand structural framing, good chance yours is included. From the misuse of terminology I suspect that adequate information can not be given over the internet to evaluate whether you should be concerned or not. Using the internet is good for a homeowner to start an understanding of what you're dealing with, but in this case just go straight to an engineer.

Palimpsest house is 25' wide x 30' long

:98% of contractors do not understand structural framing, good chance yours is included. From the misuse of terminology I suspect that adequate information can not be given over the internet to evaluate whether you should be concerned or not. Using the internet is good for a homeowner to start an understanding of what you're dealing with, but in this case just go straight to an engineer."

This sweeping generalization isn't helpful or remotely accurate.

You don't get to see a cardiologist without a referral from a GP. Same thing here.

An imperfect analogy at best. You don't need a "referral" to hire an engineer for an hour, just common sense.

If you like setting money on fire, have at it.