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 Shoreham-by-Sea?
In Shoreham-by-Sea, a structural alteration typically costs £5,000–£10,500 for a typical knock-through with steel beam, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). Prices across the South East are typically 12% above the UK average for this kind of work, which is reflected in the range for Shoreham-by-Sea. 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:
- Span of the opening
- Floor and ceiling repairs
- 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 Shoreham-by-Sea?
Approvals for a structural alteration in Shoreham-by-Sea 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:
- Structural engineer’s calculations and drawings
- Temporary propping
- Making good, plastering and flooring repairs
- Steel beam supply and installation on padstones
- Building control application
- Fire protection to the steel
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 Shoreham-by-Sea
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.
From BN43 outwards, we take on projects throughout Shoreham-by-Sea and the surrounding parts of West Sussex.
How it works
- 01
Visit and measured survey
A free visit to understand the project, check access and take measurements.
- 02
Drawings and written quote
We prepare the design and give you a written, itemised quote with inclusions and exclusions.
- 03
Approvals
Planning or permitted development confirmation, building regulations and any party wall matters.
- 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 Shoreham-by-Sea
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 I need a party wall notice?
In England and Wales, if the beam sits in a party wall, yes.
How much does a structural alteration cost in Shoreham-by-Sea?
In Shoreham-by-Sea, 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.
Who approves a structural alteration in Shoreham-by-Sea?
Planning matters in Shoreham-by-Sea go to the council covering your address, and the work needs building control approval. We prepare and submit the applications for you.