What is a structural alteration?
A structural alteration changes how a house carries its loads, most often by removing a load-bearing wall and replacing it with a steel beam. It is how kitchens and dining rooms become open-plan, and how extensions are joined to the original house.
How much does a structural alteration cost in Aberdeen?
In Aberdeen, a structural alteration typically costs £4,250–£9,250 for a typical knock-through with steel beam, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). Prices in Scotland sit near the national average for this kind of work, and the range for Aberdeen reflects that. Design, structural calculations and council fees are extra.
| Size or type | Guide range |
|---|---|
| A typical knock-through with steel beam | £4,250–£9,250 |
| Higher specification | £9,250–£11,500 |
The main things that change the cost:
- Floor and ceiling repairs
- Moving radiators, sockets and pipes
- Flush or downstand beam
- What sits above the wall
For a figure based on your own measurements, try the guide price tool, then book a free home visit for a fixed quote.
Do you need planning permission for a structural alteration in Aberdeen?
The approval route for Aberdeen is set by planning law in Scotland. In Scotland removing a load-bearing wall needs a building warrant before work starts.
In Scotland a building warrant is needed before work starts on most extensions, loft conversions and conversions. It is issued by the council’s building standards service. When the work is finished, a completion certificate is submitted and accepted by the council after inspection.
Our first visit includes a check of your planning history, so you know the route before paying for drawings.
What we handle
Handled as part of most structural alterations:
- Fire protection to the steel
- Temporary propping
- Making good, plastering and flooring repairs
- Steel beam supply and installation on padstones
- Structural engineer’s calculations and drawings
- Written agreement with neighbours on shared walls
How long does it take?
Build time is typically 1 to 2 weeks on site for a typical knock-through. Before that, surveys, drawings and approvals usually take 6 to 12 weeks, longer if the council asks for changes.
Building in Aberdeen
Scotland’s housing ranges from sandstone tenements and villas to post-war and modern estates, and the building warrant system shapes how projects are planned.
Aberdeen sits in Aberdeen and Grampian. We cover the whole of Aberdeen, including postcodes AB10, AB11, AB12 and AB15.
How it works
- 01
Visit and measured survey
A free visit to understand the project, check access and take measurements.
- 02
Design and fixed quote
Drawings, structural calculations and an itemised, fixed price for the agreed specification.
- 03
Approvals
Planning or permitted development confirmation, building regulations and any party wall matters.
- 04
Construction and completion
We build, put right any snags and hand over the building control certificate.
Questions about structural alterations in Aberdeen
How do I know if a wall is load-bearing?
Only a survey can confirm it. Walls that carry floor joists, roof loads or walls above are load-bearing. We check on site and the engineer confirms.
What fire protection does a steel need?
Usually fire-rated plasterboard or intumescent paint, as building control requires.
Can the beam be hidden?
Often, by setting it within the ceiling depth. It depends on the joists and span.
Do I need planning permission for a structural alteration in Aberdeen?
In Scotland removing a load-bearing wall needs a building warrant before work starts.
How long does a structural alteration take in Aberdeen?
Typically 1 to 2 weeks on site for a typical knock-through. Design and approvals beforehand usually take 6 to 12 weeks.
How much does a structural alteration cost in Aberdeen?
In Aberdeen, a structural alteration typically costs £4,250–£9,250 for a typical knock-through with steel beam, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). Your fixed price depends on the survey and drawings.