BCS Builders carries out wall removals as part of house renovation work, working with structural engineers. We are the builder. Whether a wall is load bearing, and what should replace it, is decided by an engineer or surveyor, and building control approval is a separate step. We agree the scope for your actual job once those pieces are clear.
Who does what
- BCS, as builder: agrees a written scope for the work, then builds to the approved design.
- Structural engineer or surveyor: checks what the wall supports and designs the replacement support.
- Building control: approves and inspects the work under the building regulations.
The Planning Portal explains that building regulations will normally apply if you remove an internal wall or form an opening in one, and that an engineer or surveyor can determine whether a wall is load bearing and design a beam for it.
Why a wall can matter more than it looks
The Planning Portal lists common things an internal wall may be holding up: part of the roof structure or ceiling joists, a wall directly above, or floor joists. It also gives a less obvious example, where a beam left after a chimney breast was removed rests on that wall. It says walls can have functions that affect both the building and the safety of the people in it.
If a wall forms part of a way out of the house, affects how rooms are ventilated, or carries pipes, cables or ducts, those points need to be part of a design for your specific project.
Other consents that may apply
- If the work is on or near a shared wall, you may need to tell your neighbours under the party wall rules.
- If the building is listed, consent may be needed. Our article on listed buildings in North London covers the background.
- If you own a flat on a lease, check what your lease says about structural alterations.
What to send us
To see whether the work fits what we take on, send us:
- your postcode and property type
- which wall, and the opening you have in mind
- any drawings, engineer details or building control correspondence you already have
Wall removal usually forms part of wider work. See our house renovation services for the rest of what we do, and our completed projects.