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 Farnham?
In Farnham, a structural alteration typically costs £5,000–£10,500 for a typical knock-through with steel beam, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). Building costs in the South East run about 12% above the UK average, and the figures for Farnham are adjusted to reflect that. 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 main things that change the cost:
- Floor and ceiling repairs
- Span of the opening
- What sits above the wall
- Moving radiators, sockets and pipes
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 Farnham?
Approvals for a structural alteration in Farnham 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.
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.
At the survey we check your house’s planning history and any restrictions, and tell you which route applies.
What we handle
Handled as part of most structural alterations:
- Steel beam supply and installation on padstones
- Structural engineer’s calculations and drawings
- Making good, plastering and flooring repairs
- Temporary propping
- Fire protection to the steel
- Party wall notices where needed
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 Farnham
Commuter towns across the South East have many 1930s and post-war semis that suit rear extensions and hip-to-gable loft conversions.
If your home is in Farnham or close by in Aldershot, Fleet and Farnborough, a free home visit is the first step.
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 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 sign-off
We run the build to a written programme and hand over the completion certificate.
Questions about structural alterations in Farnham
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 Farnham?
In Farnham, 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.
Do I need building regulations approval?
Yes. Removing a load-bearing wall is building work that needs approval, with calculations for the beam.
Do you build structural alterations in Farnham?
Yes. We build structural alterations across Farnham, including postcodes GU9. Every project starts with a free home visit.
Do I need a party wall notice?
In England and Wales, if the beam sits in a party wall, yes.