Structural Engineer Blog

What size RSJ do you need to remove a load-bearing wall? A structural engineer's 2026 guide to steel beam sizing — typical sizes for 3m–6m spans, what determines the size, and why guesswork won't pass Building Control.

Do you need a party wall agreement for your loft conversion or extension? A 2026 guide covering when the Party Wall Act applies, notice periods, surveyor costs, and how it affects your structural calculations in London and Essex.

Converting your garage into a habitable room? A structural engineer's 2026 guide to garage conversions in London — what calculations you need, costs from £400, foundation checks, infill walls, and Building Regulations approval.

Most London councils now require a steel beam — not gallows brackets — for chimney breast removal. A structural engineer's 2026 guide explaining why Building Control has moved away from gallows brackets and what to specify instead.

Removing a chimney stack in London? A structural engineer's 2026 guide covering chimney stack removal costs from £2,750, Building Regulations, planning permission, shared stack issues, party wall, and what to do with the stack in the loft.

How we designed the structural calculations for a 4.2m wide single-storey rear extension on a 1960s semi-detached house in Tilbury, Thurrock — steel goalpost frame, foundation design, and Building Control sign-off in 5 working days.

Cracks in your walls? Sticking doors? Suspected subsidence? Our 2026 guide explains how a structural survey in London works, what the engineer checks, what the report includes, typical costs, and when you actually need one.

Structural engineer costs in London 2026: from £400 for a single steel beam, £800–£1,500 for loft conversions, £400–£800 for chimney removal & surveys. Fixed prices, no hourly rates. Compare fees by service.

Chimney breast removal in London 2026: full structural engineer's guide. Costs from £1,750, Building Regulations, planning permission, party wall, semi-detached vs terrace, steel beam vs gallows brackets — and how to avoid retrospective issues.

Structural engineer vs architect — what's the difference and do you need both? We explain who does what for loft conversions, extensions & renovations in London.

Not sure if you need a structural engineer? Here are 7 clear signs your home project requires one — from loft conversions to cracks in walls. London homeowner guide.

Complete guide to load-bearing wall removal in London. When you need a structural engineer, how much it costs, steel beam sizing, Building Control & timelines.

How to find a reliable structural engineer near you in London. What to look for, typical costs, and why local knowledge matters for your home project.

Everything about hiring a structural engineer for your house extension in London. Foundation design, steel beams, Building Control & costs explained.

Structural engineering for a 4m rear extension on a Victorian terrace in East Ham. Foundation design, steel beams, Building Control submission — the full process.

How we designed a 4.2m steel beam for a kitchen wall removal in Stratford. Full details of the structural engineering process, costs, and timeline.

How we designed the structural calculations for a rear dormer loft conversion on a Victorian mid-terrace in Ilford. Steel beams, floor joists, Building Control — the full story.

Do you need planning permission or Building Control approval? A structural engineer explains the difference and when you need each for your London home project.

Everything you need to know about hiring a structural engineer for your loft conversion in London. Steel beams, Building Control, costs and timelines explained.

Choosing the right structural engineer can make or break your London home project. Learn what to look for and why SBS Structural and Architectural Design is the trusted partner for homeowners.