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 Cambridgeshire?
In Cambridgeshire, a structural alteration typically costs £4,750–£10,000 for a typical knock-through with steel beam, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). The guide for Cambridgeshire reflects typical costs in the East of England, roughly 6% 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 | £4,750–£10,000 |
| Higher specification | £10,000–£12,500 |
What moves the price most:
- Span of the opening
- Moving radiators, sockets and pipes
- Flush or downstand beam
- What sits above the wall
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 Cambridgeshire?
The approval route for Cambridgeshire is set by planning law 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
On a typical structural alteration we handle:
- Fire protection to the steel
- Steel beam supply and installation on padstones
- Making good, plastering and flooring repairs
- Building control sign-off
- Building control application
- Structural engineer’s calculations and drawings
How long does it take?
The build itself usually takes 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 Cambridgeshire
Across the East of England, 1930s and post-war semis, newer estates and rural cottages all feature, each with different extension and loft options.
Towns we cover in Cambridgeshire include Peterborough, Cambridge, Wisbech, St Neots, Huntingdon and March.
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
Design and pricing
Design options, then a fixed quote based on the chosen drawings and specification.
- 03
Approvals in place
We handle planning, building control and neighbour notices before work starts.
- 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 Cambridgeshire
Do I need building regulations approval?
Yes. Removing a load-bearing wall is building work that needs approval, with calculations for the beam.
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.
Who approves a structural alteration in Cambridgeshire?
Planning matters in Cambridgeshire 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 much does a structural alteration cost in Cambridgeshire?
In Cambridgeshire, a structural alteration typically costs £4,750–£10,000 for a typical knock-through with steel beam, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). Your fixed price depends on the survey and drawings.