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 County Tyrone?
In County Tyrone, a structural alteration typically costs £3,750–£8,250 for a typical knock-through with steel beam, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). The guide for County Tyrone reflects typical costs in Northern Ireland, roughly 14% below the UK-wide figure. Design, structural calculations and council fees are extra.
| Size or type | Guide range |
|---|---|
| A typical knock-through with steel beam | £3,750–£8,250 |
| Higher specification | £8,250–£10,500 |
The biggest cost drivers are:
- Agreements with neighbours on shared walls
- Span of the opening
- Flush or downstand beam
- 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 County Tyrone?
The approval route for County Tyrone is set by planning law in Northern Ireland. In Northern Ireland removing a load-bearing wall needs building control approval from the council.
Northern Ireland has no Party Wall Act. Work on shared walls relies on agreement with the neighbour and common law, so we agree the arrangements in writing before work starts.
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:
- Temporary propping
- Building control sign-off
- Building control application
- Written agreement with neighbours on shared walls
- Fire protection to the steel
- 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. Before that, surveys, drawings and approvals usually take 6 to 12 weeks, longer if the council asks for changes.
Building in County Tyrone
Northern Ireland has many detached and semi-detached homes on generous plots, which suits single-storey rear extensions and garage conversions.
Towns we cover in County Tyrone include Omagh, Strabane, Dungannon and Cookstown.
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 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 County Tyrone
Who approves a structural alteration in County Tyrone?
Planning matters in County Tyrone 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 planning permission for a structural alteration in County Tyrone?
In Northern Ireland removing a load-bearing wall needs building control approval from the council.
How long does a knock-through take?
Usually 1 to 2 weeks on site, plus a few days for plastering to dry.
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.
How much does a structural alteration cost in County Tyrone?
In County Tyrone, a structural alteration typically costs £3,750–£8,250 for a typical knock-through with steel beam, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). Your fixed price depends on the survey and drawings.