Removing a chimney breast is often a choice homeowners make when they want to create more space in their home.  If you are considering removing your chimney breast, it’s important to know there are regulations to consider during the renovation process.
 
If you are planning to remove an internal chimney breast at ground and/or first floor you most likely don’t need to remove the external stack. This means that you won’t have to alter the roof or external appearance of your property, which is good if you’re on a tighter budget. However, as you will only be removing parks of the chimney breast, this will need to be supported. This is when you will need the expertise of a structural engineer. They will come to assess your property an calculate the type of steel beam that you will need to keep your building structurally sound, once the chimney breast has been removed.
 
If the chimney and the stack are all fully removed, including above roof level, there should be no need for extra structural supports, which your structural engineer can confirm.
 
How much does it cost to remove a chimney breast?
The cost of removing the chimney breast varies, and is this part of a larger project or not? It is recommended you budget at least £5,000.
 
Other factors you might need to consider when removing a chimney breast – depending on the rest of your build project include:
Planning Permission to Remove a Chimney Breast
Building Regulations for Removing a Chimney Breast
Party Wall Act (England and Wales)
Gas work
 
If you are looking for a professional structural engineer to help you with a chimney breast removal project, give us a call today on 01277 554 147 or complete the form on our contact page.

​A structural engineer is a civil engineer who analyses how a structure is affected by the forces of nature, like gravity, the wind, and the soil around the structure. They can make a determination as to whether or not the structural can stand up to the elements that it is exposed to without experiencing further extensive damage or a possible collapse. Using his education, training, and experience, a structural engineer will help to ensure that all elements of the design and budget are incorporated in order to result in a building that is safe and structurally sound.