Load Bearing Wall Removal Design
Are you dreaming of an open, flowing living space after removing a wall? AC Design Solution provides the crucial structural engineering expertise to make it possible. As specialized structural engineers, we create the precise designs and calculations required to safely remove a load-bearing wall, ensuring your vision becomes reality while maintaining your home’s structural integrity.
Expert Consultations
Details Matter
Building Regulation
Our comprehensive double storey extension plans ensure optimal energy performance while keeping costs low. We handle all regulatory compliance while creating designs that minimize disruption through unified construction timelines.
Load Bearing Wall Removal: Is Removing a Load Bearing Wall Right?
What is a Load Bearing Wall?
Load bearing walls are critical structural elements that support and distribute the weight of your home, including the roof and upper floors. Unlike non-load bearing walls that simply divide spaces, these load-bearing walls are fundamental to your property’s structural integrity.
How to Tell if a Wall is Load Bearing?
Location indicators:
-
Positioned perpendicular to floor joists or parallel to roof rafters
-
Typically found in the center of the house or along exterior walls
-
Usually thicker than non-load bearing internal walls
-
Often contain structural elements like beams or columns
Simple testing methods:
-
Check floor joists: walls running parallel to joists are typically load bearing
-
Tap test: a heavier, ‘dull’ thud strongly suggests a load bearing wall, while a lighter, ‘hollow’ sound indicates a non-load bearing wall
-
Fewer electrical outlets or switches (due to complexity of running wires)
| Included as standard | Traditional Architects |
AC Design Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Fixed, transparent pricing | ✖ | ✔ |
| 2 Free design changes | ✖ | ✔ |
| Immediate project start subject to T&C'S | ✖ | ✔ |
| 3D property scanning within the price | ✖ | ✔ |
| Remote, hassle-free meetings on Teams or Zoom | ✖ | ✔ |
| Planning & building control guarantees | ✖ | ✔ |
| Transparent build cost analysis | ✖ | ✔ |
| Clear timeline & progress tracking | ✖ | ✔ |
Our Structural Engineering Process
1. Expert Assessment
Our structural engineers conduct a thorough on-site evaluation and review existing building plans to determine the load bearing status and structural requirements.
2. Detailed Structural Analysis
We perform comprehensive calculations to understand load distribution and determine the optimal engineering solution for your specific situation.
3. Precision Engineering Design
Based on our analysis, we create detailed specifications for appropriate replacement structures (RSJ steel beams, columns, etc.) precisely engineered for your requirements.
4. Complete Technical Documentation
We provide comprehensive engineering drawings, calculations and specifications for your chosen construction team and Building Control authorities
5. Builder Consultation
Our engineers are available to liaise with your building contractor to ensure they fully understand the design specifications and structural requirements.
CALL US TODAY ON 020 8152 4006
How to Remove a Load-Bearing Wall Safely
Steps to Remove a Load-Bearing Wall
Initial consultation with a qualified structural engineer
Property assessment to confirm wall status and structural requirements
Engineering design of appropriate support structure (usually a steel beam or support beam)
Building regulations approval through Building Control
Selection of a qualified builder to perform the construction work
Installation of temporary supports during construction
The removal of the wall may significantly impact the structural integrity of the building. and installation of permanent support structures
Final inspection and certification
The Role of a Structural Engineer
A structural engineer is essential when you need to remove a load-bearing wall. They:
Determine if the wall is truly load-bearing
Calculate the loads that need support
Design appropriate replacement support systems
Produce technical drawings and specifications
Ensure compliance with building regulations
Provide documentation for Building Control approval
Choosing the Right Builder for Wall Removal
After your structural engineer creates the design, you’ll need to hire a qualified builder who:
Has experience with structural modifications
Understands how to interpret engineering specifications
Possesses the skills to properly install steel beams and supports
Will work in compliance with building regulations
Can manage the project efficiently and safely
What is the Cost to Remove a Load Bearing Wall?
Average Cost of Removing a Load Bearing Wall
The average cost to remove a load-bearing wall typically ranges from £1,500 to £5,000+ for the structural engineering and construction work combined. This includes:
-
Structural engineer fees: £100-£1,200+
-
Building Control fees: £200-£800
-
Construction costs: £800-£3,500+
Factors Influencing the Cost of Removing a Load Bearing Wall
he final cost to remove a load-bearing wall depends on several factors:
-
Size of the opening created and the complexity of the structural solution required will depend on whether the wall is load-bearing.
-
The type and size of support beam needed (usually a steel beam) will depend on the size of the wall being removed.
-
Additional services requiring relocation (electrical, plumbing, etc.) may be necessary if the wall is load-bearing.
-
Finish work required after wall removal
-
Location of your property Whether you need planning permission (for listed buildings)
Cost Guide for Load Bearing Wall Removal
Economy solution (small opening, standard conditions): £1,500-£2,500 Standard solution (medium opening, typical home): £2,500-£4,000 A complex solution may be required if the wall is load-bearing and needs to be removed. (large opening, difficult conditions): £4,000-£8,000+
Note: These cost estimates include both the structural engineering design and the construction work. Our engineering fees typically represent 15-25% of the total project cost.
Check some of our customers review
Client Success Stories
“AC Design Solution transformed our traditional layout into a stunning open plan space by removing a wall and installing a support beam.” Their engineering expertise and attention to detail gave us complete confidence throughout the project.”
Structural Engineering Strategy & Design
We built a wide steel building with hidden columns, some of the beams spanning over 14m. The connections between beams and columns were designed for disproportionate collapse. The frame had to be tied together in two directions as part of disproportionate collapse prevention. Our design met all criteria without that the need for buttressing walls, or bracing everywhere. We handled all the engineering calculations and detailed drawings.
Steel Detailing & Compliance
Our steel design fully complied with Eurocode 3 (BS EN 1993) and UK Building Regulations Part A. We carefully detailed all connections to create a continuous structure with clear load paths and protection against progressive collapse. We worked closely with the contractor on the fabrication drawings to meet execution class 2 standards, ensuring the project met all requirements from initial design through to final installation.
Final Outcome & Client Feedback
Being the lead structural engineers on these projects, we delivered correct structural drawings and calculations and drawings the first time around, we reviewed contaminations reports, soil reports to prevent costly mistakes, and we commissioned de-watering reports to avoid errors. Our design allowed for the open-span layout the mosque needed, creating the flexible congregational space without internal columns.
When the construction team encountered unexpected ground conditions, our thorough initial structural planning had already accounted for soil variability, eliminating the need for revised calculations. The client appreciated our clear, detailed structural documentation which minimized questions during the build and prevented costly mistakes. The project passed Building Control inspection without structural amendments, allowing the mosque to open on schedule and within their planned budget. As with all our projects we design in 3d to eliminate the issues and can revert to it if there is an issue on site.
Most frequently asked questions
Q. How long does your structural engineering design process take?
Our typical timeline for completing structural engineering designs for load bearing wall removal is 7-10 working days. This includes the initial site assessment, structural calculations, design work, and production of complete technical documentation. For simpler projects with standard configurations, we can sometimes expedite this to 3 working days. More complex projects involving multiple wall removals or unusual structural elements may require 2-3 weeks to ensure all engineering aspects are properly addressed. We provide a specific timeline estimate as part of our initial consultation.
Q. Will removing a load bearing wall add value to my property?
Yes, in most cases, removing a load bearing wall to create open-plan living spaces adds significant value to your property, but it’s essential to know how much does it cost. Open floor plans continue to be one of the most desirable home features for modern buyers, often resulting in faster sales and higher offers. Beyond the financial return, our clients consistently report improved quality of life and better functionality in their newly opened spaces.
Q.Do you recommend specific builders for the construction phase?
While our focus is purely on the structural engineering aspects, we maintain a network of trusted builders who have successfully implemented our designs. We’re happy to provide recommendations if requested, though you’re free to work with any qualified contractor of your choice. What’s most important is selecting a builder who will precisely follow our engineering specifications. We can provide technical guidance to your chosen contractor to ensure they fully understand the critical structural requirements of your project.
Q. How do your structural designs account for unexpected conditions contractors might find?
Our engineering designs include detailed notes and contingency specifications to address common variables contractors might encounter. However, older properties can sometimes reveal unexpected structural elements once walls are opened. In these cases, our engineers are available for rapid consultation and can provide amended designs when necessary. We pride ourselves on responsive service during the construction phase, even though we’re not physically performing the work. If significant revisions are required, we clearly communicate any additional engineering costs before proceeding.
Q. Can any load bearing wall be removed?
While most load bearing walls can be removed with proper engineering, there are occasionally situations where removal is not advisable or would require extensive (and expensive) structural modifications. Factors affecting feasibility include the wall’s location, the loads it supports, foundation conditions, and overall building structure. During our initial assessment, we’ll provide an honest evaluation of feasibility, potential challenges, and alternative solutions if complete removal isn’t practical.
Q. Do You Need a Party Wall Agreement?
If the load-bearing wall you want to remove is a party wall (shared with neighbors), you will need a party wall agreement before beginning work. This applies when:
- The wall separates your property from a neighboring property
- You live in a terraced or semi-detached house and the wall is on the boundary
- The wall is within 3 meters of a neighboring structure, and your excavation extends below their foundation, which may require a building notice.
A party wall agreement typically involves:
- Serving formal notice to affected neighbors (at least 2 months before work begins)
- Getting written consent from neighbors or appointing a party wall surveyor
- Creating a schedule of condition for neighboring properties
- Formal documentation of the agreement
Get your instant online quote now!
Put £2000* back in your pocket compared to hiring a traditional architect—perfect for financing that new kitchen.