Removing load bearing walls

Internal and external walls have a number of purposes, from dividing a space to providing structure and fire protection.

Load bearing walls are fundamental to the structure of the house and cannot be changed or removed without building regulations consent. 

Usually you will not need a structural engineer if the alterations are straightforward (this usually means simply supported beams with a span of up to 4 metres.) 

For more complicated projects, you may need an independent structural engineer who will look at the load the wall is taking. They will design a beam and, if necessary, other supporting structures.

Any structural design needs to be submitted to the Local Authority for assessment. We recommend you don’t start work until it is approved. 

Staircase walls

Walls around your staircase can offer protection in the event of a fire. Any alteration of these walls also requires building regulations consent. If these walls are removed, you must have adequate smoke detection and all of your rooms must have windows suitable for fire escape purposes. If you want to remove one of these walls, a building control body can establish if the walls are essential to the fire protection within your house and advise if any additional work is required.