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Load Bearing Wall Removal /

Are you planning Internal structural alterations in your home?

When it comes to Internal structural alterations beamcalc.co.uk are the experts

Internal structural alterations refer to modifications made to the structural elements inside your residential property. These changes affect structural elements that are integral to the building’s structural design or stability.

Altering a structural element is defined as ‘building work’ under Regulation 3(1)(C) of The Building Regulations 2010 (as amended). This means the ‘building work’ would need to comply with the requirements of Part A of the Building Regulations.

Here’s a breakdown of what this typically includes:

Internal structural alterations involve changes to load-bearing or essential internal parts of a building, such as:

  • Walls (especially load-bearing walls)

  • Beams

  • Columns

  • Floor joists

  • Stairs

  • Roof structures

These changes often require building permits and engineering approval because they can compromise the building’s integrity if not properly designed or executed.

2. Examples

  • Removing or relocating a load-bearing wall

  • Cutting through a floor to install a staircase

  • Strengthening beams or joists to support additional weight

  • Installing new internal columns or supports

  • Replacing or modifying internal structural framing

3. What It’s Not

Internal structural alterations do not include:

  • Cosmetic changes (e.g., painting, wallpapering)

  • Non-load-bearing partition changes (It’s very important to note some partitions are essential for fire safety)

  • Replacing cabinets or fixtures

4. Why It Matters

  • Safety: Poorly done structural changes can cause collapse or instability.

  • Regulations and Codes: Most require Building Control approval for structural work.

  • Property Value: Structural improvements (or damages) affect appraisal and insurance.

Common Domestic Internal Structural Alterations

Here are some typical examples:

  1. Removing or Altering a Load-Bearing Wall

    • Example: Creating an open-plan kitchen/dining room.

    • Requires: Structural engineer’s report and building control approval.

  2. Installing New Beams or RSJs (Rolled Steel Joists)

    • Used to support the structure when a wall or section is removed.

  3. Modifying Floor Structures

    • Adding or removing floor joists, or reinforcing them to support heavier loads (e.g., for a new bathroom or loft conversion).

  4. Changing or Replacing Staircases

    • May involve cutting through floor structures or altering support points.

  5. Adding or Removing Chimney Breasts

    • A structural task if the chimney is part of the main support system of the house.

  6. Loft Conversions

    • Altering roof structures, adding dormers, and reinforcing floors.

  7. Basement Lowering or Conversion

    • Structural underpinning, new internal walls or supports.

Do You Need Permission?

Yes, you’ll likely need:

  • Planning permission (sometimes, depending on the scope).

  • Building Regulations approval (always, if structural).

  • A structural engineer’s input for design and calculations.

Why It’s Important

  • Safety: Removing or modifying load-bearing elements without proper support can lead to collapse.

  • Legal: Unauthorized structural changes can cause issues when selling or insuring the property.

  • Compliance: It must meet current building regulations for fire safety, insulation, and structural integrity.

Internal Structural Alterations

 

Loadbearing Wall Removal

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We understand the importance of getting accurate structural calculations when working on a domestic building project.