How can I tell if a wall is load-bearing?
The clues that suggest a wall carries load, why none of them is proof on its own, and how an engineer's check settles the question.
How much does it cost to remove a load-bearing wall?
Guide prices for removing a load-bearing wall with a steel beam, what each line of a quote covers, and what pushes the cost up or down.
What building regulations apply to removing a load-bearing wall?
How the building regulations apply to removing a structural wall in each UK nation, and what planning, listed building and leasehold rules add.
Do I need a structural engineer for a steel beam?
When a structural engineer is needed for steel beam work, what their calculations cover, what building control expects and what the design typically costs.
RSJ, universal beam or goalpost frame: what is the difference?
What people mean by an RSJ, how universal beams, columns and channels differ, and when an engineer might choose a goalpost frame instead.
Do I need a party wall notice for a steel beam?
When a steel beam brings in the Party Wall etc. Act 1996, which notices and time limits apply, and what happens in Scotland and Northern Ireland instead.
Does a steel beam in a house need fire protection?
Why steel beams in homes usually need fire protection, how the required period is set, and how boxing and intumescent coatings compare.
How long does a steel beam installation take?
A realistic timeline for a steel beam job, from survey and calculations through approvals and notices to the days on site, inspection and drying out.
Chimney breast removal: steel beam or gallows brackets?
How masonry left above a removed chimney breast is supported, how a steel beam and gallows brackets compare, and the approvals and party wall points involved.
Building notice or full plans: which should I use?
How the building notice and full plans routes differ in England and Northern Ireland, which suits steel beam work, and how Wales and Scotland approve work instead.
Do I need a building warrant for structural alterations in Scotland?
Why structural alterations in Scotland need a building warrant, how the process and fees work, and what happens at completion or when work began without one.
What are temporary works and adjustable steel props?
How a house is held up while a wall comes out: adjustable steel props, needles, spreaders and sole plates, who plans them and what the law expects.
How should I prepare my home for a steel beam installation?
A practical checklist for the weeks and days before a steel beam is fitted: paperwork, neighbours, access, clearing rooms, services and living through the work.
What happens if a wall was removed without approval?
What to do if a load-bearing wall was removed without approval, how retrospective routes work across the UK, and what it can mean for safety and selling.
Looking for a definition? See the glossary of steel beam terms or the building rules by nation.