Do I need an architect if I am removing a load bearing wall?

8 years ago

Hi, we are looking to take down a wall between our kitchen and dining room, have yet to ascertain whether it's a load bearing wall. I have been advised that if it is then we would need an architect to submit plans to council (UK) and then a building warrant would be issued and need to be signed off by a structural engineer once a beam is in place. Does this sound about right. It's a fairly new build so can I make a rough plan myself and cut the (expensive) need for an architect?

all advice welcome!

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Comments (3)

Victoria
8 years ago
You need an engineer to do calculations for the size of the rsj you will need. Building control will want to see engineer's calculations. Don't think you'll need an architect, drawings should be simple.
Pumpkin thanked Victoria
Pumpkin
Original Author
8 years ago
How would I go about getting an engineer? Sorry for being so vague but we are really struggling at the moment to even get a quote in for the job as all the recommended tradesmen either aren't getting back to us to come out to see the work needing done or they are all too busy on new builds/extensions/sunroom etc..... Maybe they will be interested in us when the weather takes a turn! Feel as though everything is on hold depending on what happens with this wall....we moved in 3 months ago.
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Sounds like you are approaching this sensibly - as your Partner is a builder - I would imagine they have sourced a SE to do the calculations and then he will know what materials are required etc. From a design point of view - it might help you to have things drawn up ( like the drawings on our pro page ) so you can see the effect the new opening will have on the flow of the home - and see what it would look like before you start . If you are coupling this with a re jig of your existing cabinets or a complete new kitchen - then having design drawing for this should help.
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Hiring an architect may seem like an unnecessary expense, however, the right one can help you avoid hidden costs in the future and get the most out of your budget. For starters, an architect is best able to assess your space and get it working hardest for you. They’ll also give you an accurate understanding on the scope of work needed, so you can better plan out your finances. Not only this, they know the ins and outs of planning, meaning if you need it, they’ll be able to sort this for you ahead of time. Saving you time and money. If you’re removing a chimney breast, you’ll probably need a structural engineer. Again, an architect will be able to refer you to the best one for the project. Also, depending on your chimney, you could impact on a party wall. This could require its own set of planning, or even the recommendation of a good party wall surveyor. No matter the professional, at Resi, we try our best to put you in touch with the right people for the job. From CCTV surveyors, all the way to builders. If you’re still unsure about whether or not an architect is right for your project, feel free to book in a free advice call with our team: https://resi.co.uk/advice_calls/new
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Agree with Jonathan - if it is just internal structure and you are not changing the external footprint of the house then you are unlikely to need an architect. I'm undertaking building work which involves knocking through three rooms and creating doors, a loft conversion and creating a bathroom in a bedroom where there was no plumbing. The builders I engaged handle all the building regs etc. For the loft conversion, as part of the fixed price quote they include structural calcs and submission of a building notice - to the council I presume (I think stuff like this depends on the local authority and if you live in a conservation area etc.). No architects involved as I don't need planning permission for any of the work. I also trust my builders as they have done so much other we ork locally and I know exactly what I want. The planning portal online can help you understand what can be done with and without planning.
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mrsmcee74
8 years ago
We took down a load bearing wall. We contacted a local structural engineering practice, they drew up the plan and did all the calculations. They also recommended some local builders on our request. Then you notify the building control at your local council before work begins, they inspect during the job (for a fee) and they have to sign it off. Building control were pretty relaxed about it because we'd employed a structural engineer to do the calculations, some people just rely on their builder to work it out, not something I would do! It cost something like £300 for the plans and calculations and similar amount for building control inspection - suppose it depends where you live though as to costs.
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Do I need an architect if I am removing a load bearing wall?

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Victoria

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Do I need an architect if I am removing a load bearing wall?

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Victoria

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