Services
Structural works
Work that changes how the house carries its load. It runs to a structural engineer's design, and building control checks it.
Free no obligation quotes.
What it covers
Work that changes how the house carries its load, to a structural engineer's design. Our own jobs include steel beams and new openings formed in existing walls, with the wall propped while the work is done.
The engineer
Taking out a load-bearing wall alters the structure, so building control will ask for a structural engineer's report and calculations. The calculations size the beam and what it sits on.
Neighbours and sign-off
Work on a shared wall needs a party wall notice. That includes cutting into it for a beam, making it deeper, and knocking it down and rebuilding it. Notice for party wall work goes at least two months before you start. If you cannot agree, surveyors make a party wall award. It sets out the work, the timing, and who pays what, including surveyors' fees.
Building control issues a completion certificate when the work complies. On a full plans application that usually comes within 8 weeks of completion.
What you need to know
- Structural engineer
- A report and calculations for any load-bearing change. They size the beam and what it sits on.
- Building regulations
- Needed for structural alterations, such as removing a load-bearing wall.
- Party wall
- A notice to next door at least two months before work on a shared wall.
- Building control
- Signs the work off when it complies. On full plans, the certificate should come within 8 weeks of completion.
- Planning
- Not normally needed for work inside. A listed building needs consent.
These are the general rules, from GOV.UK and the Planning Portal. Every house is different, so check your own job with the council or building control.
How a job runs
Step 1: Enquire
Ring, or send a few lines about what you want to change and your postcode.
Step 2: Visit and quote
We come out, look at the job, and give you a free no obligation quote.
Step 3: Build
Then the engineer's design, building control and the work.
Free no obligation quotes.
The work
Photos from our own jobs.
See all projects
Questions about structural works
What counts as structural work?
Anything that changes how the house carries its loads, such as taking out a load-bearing wall or forming a new opening with a steel beam over it. It needs building control approval, and building control will ask for a structural engineer's calculations for load-bearing changes.
Why do I need a structural engineer?
Building control will ask for a structural engineer's report and calculations when you take out a load-bearing wall. The calculations size the beam, its bearings and anything else that carries the load, and they go in with the building regulations application.
What is a party wall award?
If your neighbour does not agree to the notice, surveyors are appointed, either one jointly or one each. They make a party wall award setting out what work happens, how and when, and who pays what, including surveyors' fees. Either side can appeal to the county court within 14 days.
Get a quote
Ask for a free no obligation quote
Ring, or send a few lines about the job and your postcode.