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 Fulham?
In Fulham, a structural alteration typically costs £5,750–£12,500 for a typical knock-through with steel beam, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). Prices across London are typically 30% above the UK average for this kind of work, which is reflected in the range for Fulham. Design, structural calculations and council fees are extra.
| Size or type | Guide range |
|---|---|
| A typical knock-through with steel beam | £5,750–£12,500 |
| Higher specification | £12,500–£15,500 |
The biggest cost drivers are:
- Floor and ceiling repairs
- Span of the opening
- What sits above the wall
- Flush or downstand beam
For a figure based on your own measurements, try the guide price tool, then book a free home visit for a fixed quote.
Do you need planning permission for a structural alteration in Fulham?
Before anything is built in Fulham, we confirm which approvals apply 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.
At the survey we check your house’s planning history and any restrictions, and tell you which route applies.
What we handle
The work we manage on a structural alteration:
- Building control sign-off
- Fire protection to the steel
- Steel beam supply and installation on padstones
- Building control application
- Making good, plastering and flooring repairs
- Party wall notices where needed
How long does it take?
Allow 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 Fulham
Victorian and Edwardian terraces dominate many London streets, which is why side return, wraparound and mansard projects are so common here.
Our Fulham coverage includes postcode districts SW6, and we also work in nearby places such as Chelsea, Wandsworth and Kensington.
How it works
- 01
Visit and measured survey
A free visit to understand the project, check access and take measurements.
- 02
Design and pricing
Design options, then a fixed quote based on the chosen drawings and specification.
- 03
Approvals
Planning or permitted development confirmation, building regulations and any party wall matters.
- 04
Build and sign-off
We run the build to a written programme and hand over the completion certificate.
Questions about structural alterations in Fulham
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 Fulham?
In Fulham, a structural alteration typically costs £5,750–£12,500 for a typical knock-through with steel beam, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). Your fixed price depends on the survey and drawings.
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.
Who approves a structural alteration in Fulham?
Planning matters in Fulham go to the council covering your address, and the work needs building control approval. We prepare and submit the applications for you.