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 Bognor Regis?
In Bognor Regis, a structural alteration typically costs £5,000–£10,500 for a typical knock-through with steel beam, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). We start from a UK-wide guide and adjust it for the South East, where labour and materials are typically about 12% above average. Design, structural calculations and council fees are extra.
| Size or type | Guide range |
|---|---|
| A typical knock-through with steel beam | £5,000–£10,500 |
| Higher specification | £10,500–£13,000 |
The biggest cost drivers are:
- Floor and ceiling repairs
- Span of the opening
- Party wall involvement
- Flush or downstand beam
Your exact price depends on the survey and drawings. The guide price tool gives a quick range in the meantime.
Do you need planning permission for a structural alteration in Bognor Regis?
Approvals for a structural alteration in Bognor Regis follow the rules for England. In England removing a load-bearing wall does not need planning permission but does need building regulations approval with an engineer’s calculations. If the beam bears on a party wall, a party wall notice must be served.
Where work involves a shared wall, building on the boundary, or digging foundations within 3 metres of a neighbour’s building and deeper than its foundations (or within 6 metres for deeper work), the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 applies and notices must be served before work starts.
Our first visit includes a check of your planning history, so you know the route before paying for drawings.
What we handle
On a typical structural alteration we handle:
- Structural engineer’s calculations and drawings
- Steel beam supply and installation on padstones
- Temporary propping
- Fire protection to the steel
- Making good, plastering and flooring repairs
- Building control application
How long does it take?
Allow 1 to 2 weeks on site for a typical knock-through. Allow time beforehand for drawings and approvals, usually 6 to 12 weeks.
Building in Bognor Regis
Commuter towns across the South East have many 1930s and post-war semis that suit rear extensions and hip-to-gable loft conversions.
From PO21 outwards, we take on projects throughout Bognor Regis and the surrounding parts of West Sussex.
How it works
- 01
Visit and measured survey
A free visit to understand the project, check access and take measurements.
- 02
Drawings and written quote
We prepare the design and give you a written, itemised quote with inclusions and exclusions.
- 03
Approvals in place
We handle planning, building control and neighbour notices before work starts.
- 04
Build and sign-off
We run the build to a written programme and hand over the completion certificate.
Questions about structural alterations in Bognor Regis
Can the beam be hidden?
Often, by setting it within the ceiling depth. It depends on the joists and span.
Who approves a structural alteration in Bognor Regis?
Planning matters in Bognor Regis go to the council covering your address, and the work needs building control approval. We prepare and submit the applications for you.
Do I need a party wall notice?
In England and Wales, if the beam sits in a party wall, yes.
Do I need building regulations approval?
Yes. Removing a load-bearing wall is building work that needs approval, with calculations for the beam.
How much does a structural alteration cost in Bognor Regis?
In Bognor Regis, a structural alteration typically costs £5,000–£10,500 for a typical knock-through with steel beam, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). Your fixed price depends on the survey and drawings.