Frequently Asked Questions

If the wall is load-bearing, yes. Building Control will ask for structural calculations and a beam design before they approve the work. If you're not sure whether the wall carries load, an engineer can check at a site visit.

Building Control normally needs calculations that show the beam and its supports are adequate for the loads. A builder's estimate isn't usually accepted on its own, so most projects that alter the structure need an engineer's calculations.

We work out the loads on the parts of the building you're changing and design the beams, foundations, floors and roof structure to carry them. You get calculations and drawings that your builder works from and Building Control checks.

Most structural work needs approval under the Building Regulations, including removing load-bearing walls, extensions, loft conversions and new homes. This is separate from planning permission.

Planning permission covers what a building looks like and how it affects its surroundings. Building Regulations cover how it's built, including structure, fire safety and insulation. Many projects need Building Regulations approval even when they don't need planning permission.

A full plans application means Building Control checks the drawings and calculations before work starts. Our calculations and drawings are prepared for this kind of application.

If the work affects a wall shared with a neighbour, or you're digging foundations close to a neighbour's building, you may need to serve notice under the Party Wall etc. Act 1996. This is separate from Building Control approval.

Most smaller jobs, like wall removals and loft conversions, take about a week from the site visit, once we have all the information we need. Larger projects, such as new homes and whole-house renovations, get a delivery timeframe agreed in your quote.

It depends on the size and complexity of the job. We quote a fixed, competitive fee before any work starts, so you know the full cost upfront. Send us the details for a quote.

For alterations to an existing building we usually visit, to check what the walls, floors and roof are carrying. Photos and drawings help us quote before the visit.

The address or postcode, a description of what you want to do, photos of the area being changed, and any architect's or designer's drawings you have.

Your builder is responsible for temporary support, usually called propping, while the work is carried out.

Yes. We work as the structural engineer for homeowners, architects, architectural designers and builders on residential projects.

We're based in Winchester and work across Hampshire, including Southampton, Portsmouth, Basingstoke, Eastleigh, Andover, Romsey, Fareham, Gosport, Havant, Waterlooville, Petersfield, Alton, Fleet, Farnborough, Totton, Chandler's Ford and Hedge End. Somewhere else in Hampshire or the surrounding counties? Get in touch and we'll let you know.

Yes. LTH Structural Design Ltd is a limited company with £1 million professional indemnity insurance.