Covering Bristol
We cover homes across Bristol, planned from survey to sign-off.
Homes in the South West
The South West mixes stone and render cottages, Victorian terraces in the larger towns and modern estates, and many historic centres are conservation areas where materials and roof shapes are closely controlled.
What does a structural alteration involve?
Structural alterations change the load-bearing parts of a house, most often removing a wall between two rooms and putting in a steel beam to create an open-plan layout. The work needs a structural engineer’s design and building regulations approval.
- Temporary works and propping
- Steel beam installation on padstones
- Making good floors, walls and ceilings
What will a structural alteration cost?
Indicative costs for structural alterations. London and the South East usually sit towards the top of each range.
| Structural alterations | Guide price incl. VAT |
|---|---|
| Single load-bearing wall removal with steel | £3,000 to £7,500 |
| Chimney breast removal with support | £1,800 to £4,500 |
| Multiple walls or full open-plan remodel | £8,000 to £20,000 |
What approvals does a structural alteration need in England?
English projects need planning clearance from the local council, building regulations sign-off from building control, and party wall notices where the work is on or near a shared boundary. We prepare and manage all three.
Internal work like this does not usually need planning permission unless the house is listed or your permitted development rights have been removed. It does need building regulations approval because it affects the structure.
What can affect a structural alteration?
- Shared chimney breasts and walls can involve the Party Wall Act.
- Removing walls can affect the fire escape route on open-plan ground floors in three-storey houses.
How does the project run?
- Send us the details. Give us a postcode, a rough idea of size and some photos, by phone, form or the guide price tool.
- Survey at your house. We look at the existing structure, services and access, and agree what the design needs to achieve.
- Drawings, approvals, written quote. We prepare the design, apply for the approvals it needs, and give you a fixed price in writing.
- Construction and completion. One site lead co-ordinates every trade through to the building control certificate.
Your questions answered
How long does it take?
The structural work is usually done in a few days, with one to three weeks including making good.
Can the steel be hidden in the ceiling?
Often it can be set within the floor depth, avoiding a downstand. The engineer confirms what is possible.
Who deals with the council for a project in Bristol?
We do. We prepare the drawings, submit planning or permitted development paperwork if needed, and arrange building control inspections.
Learn more about structural alterations, or see every project we cover in Bristol.