Do I Need a Structural Engineer For Wall Removal?

Renovating a home can be exciting, especially when you’re considering an open-plan layout. Removing walls can dramatically increase light and space, making your home feel larger and more modern. For example, removing walls between the kitchen and dining room or combining two small rooms can create a larger space and open plan living, significantly enhancing your living space. Some walls are non load bearing, serving only as dividers, and can often be removed more easily than load-bearing walls.

But if you’re thinking about removing a wall, the first question to ask is: Is it load-bearing? If it is, you’ll almost certainly need the help of a structural engineer. In the UK, removing a load-bearing wall is not a job to take lightly, and seeking professional help and choosing the right contractor is essential to ensure a professional job.

In this guide, we’ll explain what a load-bearing wall is, why you need a structural engineer for wall removal, how building regulations apply, what’s involved in the process, and how experienced professionals like Steel Beam Installers can help.

What Is a Load-Bearing Wall?

A load-bearing wall is a wall that supports the weight of the structure above it, such as upper floors, the roof, or ceiling joists. These walls are essential for your home’s stability, transferring loads down to the foundations.

You may be able to spot a load-bearing wall if:

• It runs perpendicular to the floor joists above

• It supports other structural elements, like beams or additional walls

• It’s located in the centre of the property

• It feels more solid than other internal walls

Non load bearing walls, also known as partition walls, do not support structural weight and mainly serve as room dividers. These non load bearing walls can often be removed with minimal risk and at a lower cost compared to load-bearing walls.

However, it’s not always obvious. Many UK homes, particularly older terrace or semi-detached properties, have complex layouts that make it difficult to tell at a glance. Removing a load bearing wall without proper assessment can cause significant structural damage, while removing a non load bearing wall is generally less risky. This is why it’s crucial to seek professional advice before removing any internal wall.

Why You Need a Structural Engineer for Wall Removal

If you’re planning to remove a load-bearing wall, a structural engineer plays a vital role in ensuring the work is done safely and complies with building regulations.

A structural engineer will:

• Assess the existing structure to determine how much weight the load bearing wall supports

• Specify the correct steel beam (RSJ) or other supports to carry the load, determining the necessary structural reinforcement and supporting structures required to provide support

• Provide structural calculations and drawings, which are essential for Building Control approval

• Advise on padstones, foundations or other supports that may be needed at the beam’s ends

Structural engineers have expertise in building materials and the installation of structural supports such as support beams.

Attempting to carry out this work without the correct structural support can lead to significant risks, including cracks in walls, sagging ceilings or, in the worst cases, partial collapse. It is essential to seek professional help to avoid compromising the building's safety.

Understanding Building Regulations in the UK

Removing a load-bearing wall in the UK is classified as notifiable work under Building Regulations. This means you must inform your local authority or an approved inspector before starting building work.

You’ll need to:

• Submit a Building Notice or Full Plans application to the local council or a private building control body

• Provide structural calculations from a qualified structural engineer

• Arrange for inspections before, during, and after the building work

A building inspector from the building control body or a private building control body will inspect the work to ensure compliance with fire safety and building regulations.

Even if planning permission isn’t required, the work still needs to comply with regulations. If your property is in a conservation area or is a listed building, you may also need planning consent. Listed building consent may be required for significant alterations, and you should consult the local council or local planning authority to confirm the requirements.

Additionally, if the wall in question is shared with a neighbouring property, such as in a terraced or semi-detached house, the Party Wall Act may apply. In this case, you’ll need to inform your neighbours and possibly arrange a party wall agreement.

Upon completion of the building work, a completion certificate will be issued by the building control body, which is important for future property transactions.

The Role of an RSJ (Rolled Steel Joist)

Once your structural engineer has assessed the property and produced calculations, you’ll usually need a steel beam, commonly known as an RSJ, to replace the load-bearing wall. This beam will span the gap and transfer the load safely to new supports, often in the form of padstones or posts.

RSJs must be accurately sized and positioned to avoid any structural issues. Proper installation is crucial to maintain the property's structural integrity and the overall structural integrity of the building.

There are different types of steel beams used in domestic construction, such as:

• Universal Beams (I-beams)

• Universal Columns

• Parallel Flange Channels

Using the wrong size or installing the beam incorrectly can cause long-term structural problems. That’s why it’s essential to work with professionals who understand UK building practices and standards.

Cost of Removing a Load-Bearing Wall in the UK

The overall cost of removing a load-bearing wall can vary depending on several factors, including labour costs, wall size, location, and the complexity of the job.

As a rough guide:

• Structural engineer’s fees for calculations and a site visit typically range from £250 to £500

• Supply and installation of a steel beam (RSJ) may cost anywhere from £1,000 to £2,500

• Additional costs such as making good the plasterwork, skip hire, and finishing can add £500 or more

• Building Control fees are usually between £150 and £300

Labour costs are a significant part of the expense and may be calculated on an hourly rate basis, which can impact the overall cost. Extra costs can arise from electrical or plumbing work, moving light switches, or waste removal, and these may be at the homeowner's own expense. When removing load bearing walls, the cost for creating a single doorway opening is typically lower than for a double doorway, as the size of the opening directly affects the price.

While this might sound like a significant investment, it ensures the work is done safely, legally, and to a high standard. Cutting corners can lead to major problems down the line, including difficulties selling the property or voiding your home insurance.

Why Choose Steel Beam Installers

At Steel Beam Installers, we provide a complete service for homeowners and property developers across the UK looking to remove load-bearing walls. We specialise in home renovation projects that involve removing internal walls and other building work, ensuring your property is transformed safely and efficiently.

Our experienced team offers:

• Initial consultations and structural assessments

• Qualified structural engineers to carry out full calculations and drawings

• Supply and fitting of steel beams, including RSJs and other types of structural support

• Preparation of padstones and support points

• Building Control coordination, so your project is fully compliant

• Fire protection and finishing work where required

We understand UK regulations, local authority processes, and the practical challenges that can arise during a project. Whether you’re creating an open-plan kitchen, knocking through to make a larger living area, or improving your layout, we’ll guide you every step of the way.

Get Started Today

If you’re planning to remove a load-bearing wall in your home, don’t take risks. Contact Steel Beam Installers today for expert advice, a free quote, or to book a consultation. Our professional team is ready to help you carry out the work safely, legally and efficiently.