Cost guides · 5 min read
How much does it cost to remove a load-bearing wall?
Opening the kitchen into the dining room is the single most transformative small project on the Victorian and 1930s houses around here. It is also structural work, so it has to be done properly: engineer, steel, building control. Here is what that costs.
Typical knock-through costs
| Job | Indicative cost (2026) |
|---|---|
| Standard opening, single steel beam (RSJ), making good | £2,500 to £4,500 |
| Wide span or goalpost frame, larger steels | £4,500 to £6,000+ |
| Chimney breast removal (one floor, with support) | £1,800 to £3,500 |
Those figures include the engineer’s calculations, temporary propping, the steel and padstones, building control fees and plastering the opening back in, which is how a quote for this work should be presented. A price that quietly excludes the calcs or the making good is not a cheaper price, it is an incomplete one.
What the job involves
- A structural engineer sizes the beam for the load above, this is not guesswork.
- The wall is supported on props and needles while the steel goes in.
- The beam lands on padstones so the load spreads safely into the walls.
- Building control inspects and signs the work off, which you need when you sell.
- If the wall is shared with a neighbour, party wall notices apply.
One team, no gaps
Because we design and build, the engineer, the steel and the finishing are one coordinated job with one price. Use our instant estimator for a figure, then we confirm everything at a free site visit.
Frequently asked questions
How do I know if a wall is load-bearing?+
Direction of floor joists, what sits above, and the wall’s construction all matter, and looks deceive. We assess it properly, and if there is any doubt an engineer confirms it before anything is touched.
Do I need building control to remove a wall?+
Yes, structural alterations need building control approval and engineer’s calculations. We handle both and you get the completion certificate.
How long does a knock-through take?+
Typically 3 to 5 days on site for a standard opening including making good, plus drying time before decoration.