Thinking About Removing a Wall?
Everything homeowners need to know before removing an internal wall. When you need a structural engineer, what it costs, and how the process works.
What is it?
Removing an internal wall to create an open-plan layout is one of the most popular home improvements in the UK. If the wall is load-bearing (supporting the structure above), you need structural calculations before any work begins. A structural engineer designs the steel beam (RSJ) and supporting structure that takes the place of the wall.
How to Tell If Your Wall Is Load-Bearing
- The wall runs perpendicular to the floor joists above
- The wall sits directly below another wall on the floor above
- The wall is in the centre of the house rather than at the edges
- Floorboards above run parallel to the wall (joists cross it)
- The wall is thick (one brick or more) rather than a thin partition
- There is a chimney breast built into or onto the wall
When to Worry
Never remove a wall without checking first. Even walls that appear non-structural can carry loads from above. The consequences of removing a load-bearing wall without proper support range from cracking and sagging floors to partial collapse. If in doubt, our engineers can confirm whether a wall is load-bearing during a site visit.
Common Wall Removal Mistakes
- Removing a wall without checking whether it is load-bearing
- Using an undersized steel beam (RSJ) that deflects under load
- Not submitting calculations to Building Control before starting work
- Using inadequate padstones or bearings for the beam
- Not providing temporary support (Acrow props) during the work
- Attempting to DIY a structural alteration without professional input
Recommended service: Structural inspection. Fixed price, plain-English report, usually delivered within 3–7 working days.
Planning an alteration rather than investigating damage?
If your goal is to remove a wall and create an open-plan layout, the right commercial path is our wall-removal calculations service rather than a diagnostic inspection.
If your goal is to remove a wall and create an open-plan layout, the right commercial path is our wall-removal calculations service rather than a diagnostic inspection.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if a wall is load-bearing?
Look at the direction of the floor joists above — if they run perpendicular to (crossing over) the wall, it is likely load-bearing. Walls in the centre of the house, walls with another wall directly above them, and walls containing chimney breasts are also likely structural. However, the only reliable way to confirm is to have a structural engineer assess it on site.
Do I need Building Control approval for wall removal?
Yes. Any removal of a load-bearing wall is notifiable work under the Building Regulations. You must submit structural calculations to your local Building Control office before work starts, and a Building Control officer will inspect the completed work. Our calculation packs include building control drawings ready for submission.
How much does a structural engineer charge for wall removal?
Our wall removal structural calculations start from £450. This fixed price includes a site visit, steel beam (RSJ) sizing, structural drawings, padstone specifications and Building Control-ready calculation pack. Additional walls on the same visit are charged at a reduced rate.
How long does the wall removal process take?
From initial enquiry to receiving your calculation pack is typically 2 to 3 weeks: a few days to schedule the site visit, then 3 to 7 working days for the calculations and drawings. The physical wall removal itself typically takes a builder 1 to 3 days depending on the span and complexity. Building Control sign-off follows completion.
Can I remove a wall myself if I get calculations done?
We strongly advise against DIY wall removal even with professional calculations. The work involves temporary structural support (Acrow props), lifting heavy steel beams into position and forming adequate bearings — all of which require building experience. An experienced builder will also ensure the work meets Building Control standards. We provide the calculations; your builder does the physical work.
What is an RSJ and why do I need one?
RSJ stands for Rolled Steel Joist — it is the steel beam that replaces a load-bearing wall, carrying the loads from above across the opening. The term RSJ is used loosely; most modern residential beams are UB (Universal Beam) sections. The beam must be individually calculated by a structural engineer to ensure it can safely carry the specific loads in your property.
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