LAST UPDATED: JANUARY 07, 2026
Load Bearing Wall Removal Balham & Tooting (SW12 / SW17)
Specialist structural wall removal, RSJ installation, and open-plan conversions for Victorian homes across Wandsworth.
Removing a load-bearing wall is not guesswork. The real risk is not the demolition — it is supporting the structure correctly once the wall is gone.
We assess your layout properly, confirm whether the wall is structural, and put a clear engineering plan in place before any work begins.
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Create Space in Your Balham or Tooting Home Safely
Structural Changes Done Safely, With Clear Costs From the Start
Living in a Victorian terrace in the Heaver Estate, Hyde Farm, or the Furzedown area often means dealing with a familiar layout problem — a narrow, dark kitchen separated from the dining space by a solid internal wall.
We specialise in resolving this exact “corridor kitchen” issue. Whether you are planning a simple kitchen knock-through or preparing for a larger side-return extension, we handle the structural work that makes open-plan living possible without compromising safety.
Homes across SW12 and SW17 typically rely on internal masonry walls to carry floor loads or upper walls.
These load paths must be handled carefully to protect the original structure. We provide a complete structural solution, from assessment and engineering calculations through to RSJ installation and final sign-off.
Quick next step: If you have a photo, sketch, or plan (png, jpeg), jump straight to the AI estimate below and get an instant, practical breakdown.
wall removal specialist in Balham and tooting
Why Homeowners in SW12 & SW17 Choose Us
We do not simply remove walls. We manage structural alterations properly, with a clear process designed for London period properties.
Balham and Tooting homes commonly use internal walls to support timber floors and chimney breasts. We understand these load paths and assess them before recommending any structural change.
We guide you through the Building Control process and ensure drawings, calculations, and inspections are handled correctly. This avoids problems during future sales or remortgaging.
From temporary support through to making good, we manage safety, dust, waste removal, and site protection so disruption is kept to a minimum.
One team, one plan, one point of contact
Wall removal our steps
Our Wall Removal Process
We follow a strict six-step structural protocol to keep your home safe at every stage.
01.
Step
Assessment
We confirm whether the wall is load-bearing and identify what loads it is carrying, such as floors, roofs, or chimney structures.
02.
Step
Engineering
A structural engineer prepares the calculations and steel beam specification required for Building Control approval.
03.
Step
Protection
Dust screens, floor protection, and access protection are installed before work begins.
04.
Step
Temporary Support
Acrow props and strongboys are used to safely support the structure while the wall is removed.
05.
Step
RSJ Installation
The steel beam is installed on padstones to permanently carry the load.
06.
Step
Sign-Off
We arrange the required inspections so you receive a Building Control completion certificate.
Cost of Removing a Load-Bearing Wall in Balham & Tooting
The cost of removing a load-bearing wall depends on the opening width and the load above it. Supporting a timber floor is very different from supporting masonry or a chimney breast.
Typical Guide Ranges for SW12 & SW17 Projects
Structural Removal Only
£1,250 – £2,100
For straightforward removals where access is good and finishes are minimal.
Full Structural Project
Typically £7,862 – £9,212
This usually includes the structural engineer, steel beam, Building Control, labour, waste removal, and making good.
These figures are realistic guide ranges based on similar Balham and Tooting projects. Final costs depend on structural load, steel size, access constraints, and finish level.
load-bearing wall removal building notice
Regulations, Engineers & Approval
Most load-bearing wall removals require Building Control approval, even when planning permission is not needed. This ensures the structure remains safe and compliant with current regulations.
A structural engineer is almost always required for Victorian terraces in Balham and Tooting. The engineer calculates the correct steel beam size and provides drawings needed for approval.
Skipping this stage creates serious risks. Without proper certification, you may face problems with insurance claims, mortgage approvals, or selling your property in the future.
👉 Load Bearing Wall Removal in London
Building Control Fees in Wandsworth (Guide)
For most load-bearing wall removals in Balham and Tooting, Wandsworth Council requires a Building Notice rather than full plans approval. As a guide, Building Control fees for this type of work are typically around £650, though exact charges can change.
Wandsworth publishes its current fee structure publicly, and we always check for updates before submitting:
👉 Wandsworth Building Control Charges
Once the Building Notice is submitted and the fee is paid, work can usually begin within around 48 hours, subject to confirmation from Building Control. The official application form is available here:
👉 Wandsworth Building Notice Application Form
We assist with this process and ensure the structural engineer’s calculations are submitted correctly. This avoids delays, failed inspections, or missing paperwork that could cause problems later when selling or insuring your property.
Wall removal instant estimate
What your Smart Estimate includes
One team, one plan, one point of contact
👉 Next steps if a site visit or engineer confirmation is needed
Real questions London homeowners ask before removing a supporting wall in Balham/Tooting
FAQ
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Do I need a structural engineer for a kitchen knock-through in Balham?
In most cases, yes. Victorian terraces in SW12 and SW17 often rely on internal walls to transfer loads down to the foundations. A structural engineer calculates the correct RSJ size and ensures the load is supported safely. Their calculations are also required by Building Control.
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Will I need a Party Wall Agreement?
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How messy is removing a load-bearing wall?
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How long does the structural removal take?
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Do you handle Building Control applications for Wandsworth?
Ready to Open Up Your Space?
Do not guess when it comes to your home’s structure. Get a clear, data-backed price range and understand exactly what is involved before committing.
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Or speak with a specialist about your Balham or Tooting renovation plans.