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 Eastleigh?
In Eastleigh, a structural alteration typically costs £5,000–£10,500 for a typical knock-through with steel beam, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). That range is adjusted for the South East, where domestic building work typically costs around 12% above the national 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 |
Your quote will depend mainly on:
- Moving radiators, sockets and pipes
- What sits above the wall
- Span of the opening
- Flush or downstand beam
A guide range is only a starting point: the guide price tool gives an instant figure for your size, and a free survey turns it into a fixed quote.
Do you need planning permission for a structural alteration in Eastleigh?
Here is how the rules work for a structural alteration 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.
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.
If the answer is not clear-cut, we can apply for formal confirmation before you commit to the build.
What we handle
From survey to sign-off, the job normally involves:
- Steel beam supply and installation on padstones
- Temporary propping
- Fire protection to the steel
- Building control application
- Building control sign-off
- Party wall notices where needed
How long does it take?
Expect 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 Eastleigh
Commuter towns across the South East have many 1930s and post-war semis that suit rear extensions and hip-to-gable loft conversions.
Eastleigh sits in Hampshire, about 7 miles south of Winchester. We cover the whole of Eastleigh, including postcodes SO50 and SO97.
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 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 Eastleigh
Can the beam be hidden?
Often, by setting it within the ceiling depth. It depends on the joists and span.
What fire protection does a steel need?
Usually fire-rated plasterboard or intumescent paint, as building control requires.
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.
How long does a structural alteration take in Eastleigh?
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 Eastleigh?
In Eastleigh, 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.