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 Littlehampton?
In Littlehampton, a structural alteration typically costs £5,000–£10,500 for a typical knock-through with steel beam, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). The guide for Littlehampton reflects typical costs in the South East, roughly 12% 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 | £5,000–£10,500 |
| Higher specification | £10,500–£13,000 |
The main things that change the cost:
- What sits above the wall
- Span of the opening
- Party wall involvement
- Moving radiators, sockets and pipes
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 Littlehampton?
Approvals for a structural alteration in Littlehampton 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.
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.
At the survey we check your house’s planning history and any restrictions, and tell you which route applies.
What we handle
From survey to sign-off, the job normally involves:
- Steel beam supply and installation on padstones
- Making good, plastering and flooring repairs
- Fire protection to the steel
- Building control application
- Temporary propping
- Structural engineer’s calculations and drawings
How long does it take?
Expect 1 to 2 weeks on site for a typical knock-through. Design and approvals come first and typically take 6 to 12 weeks, depending on the approval route.
Building in Littlehampton
The South East has a broad mix of housing, from Victorian terraces in the towns to post-war semis and newer estates, so extension types vary street by street.
We work across Littlehampton and neighbouring areas such as Bognor Regis, Worthing and Lancing. Postcodes we cover in Littlehampton include BN17.
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
Permissions sorted
Applications, building control and neighbour arrangements, all before the start date.
- 04
Build and sign-off
We run the build to a written programme and hand over the completion certificate.
Questions about structural alterations in Littlehampton
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 Littlehampton?
In Littlehampton, 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.
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.
Do you build structural alterations in Littlehampton?
Yes. We build structural alterations across Littlehampton, including postcodes BN17. Every project starts with a free home visit.