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 Bordon?
In Bordon, a structural alteration typically costs £5,000–£10,500 for a typical knock-through with steel beam, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). The guide for Bordon reflects typical costs in the South East, roughly 12% above the UK-wide figure. 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 |
Your quote will depend mainly on:
- What sits above the wall
- Moving radiators, sockets and pipes
- Party wall involvement
- Floor and ceiling repairs
Use the guide price tool to see how size and specification change the figure, then ask for a written, itemised quote.
Do you need planning permission for a structural alteration in Bordon?
Whether you need planning permission depends on your house and its location in 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.
Building regulations approval comes from the council’s building control service or a registered building control approver. The work is inspected at key stages, such as foundations, drainage and insulation, and a completion certificate is issued at the end.
If the answer is not clear-cut, we can apply for formal confirmation before you commit to the build.
What we handle
The work we manage on a structural alteration:
- Building control sign-off
- Fire protection to the steel
- Temporary propping
- Building control application
- Structural engineer’s calculations and drawings
- Steel beam supply and installation on padstones
How long does it take?
The build itself usually takes 1 to 2 weeks on site for a typical knock-through. Design and approvals come first and typically take 6 to 12 weeks, depending on the approval route.
Building in Bordon
The South East has a broad mix of housing, from Victorian terraces in the towns to post-war semis and newer estates, so extension types vary street by street.
Projects in Bordon (GU35) are surveyed in person before we quote, so the price reflects your actual property.
How it works
- 01
Free visit
We look at the property, talk through what you want and measure up. There is no charge and no obligation.
- 02
Drawings and written quote
We prepare the design and give you a written, itemised quote with inclusions and exclusions.
- 03
Approvals
Planning or permitted development confirmation, building regulations and any party wall matters.
- 04
Build and handover
Work follows the agreed programme, with inspections along the way and a completion certificate at the end.
Questions about structural alterations in Bordon
Who approves a structural alteration in Bordon?
Planning matters in Bordon go to the council covering your address, and the work needs building control approval. We prepare and submit the applications for you.
How long does a knock-through take?
Usually 1 to 2 weeks on site, plus a few days for plastering to dry.
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.
How much does a structural alteration cost in Bordon?
In Bordon, 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.
