Why are chimney breasts removed?
A home can gain a lot of room through Chimney Breast Removal, which is particularly useful in densely populated locations like London. Thanks to central heating, many people just don’t need fireplaces any longer, and they view them as a waste of space on the floor.
What issues are raised when chimney breasts are removed?
Since a chimney breast is a component of a building’s overall structure, its removal requires meticulous planning and preparation. When removing a chimney breast, you should take care to avoid causing structural damage to your structure, which might lead to costly repairs and even partial building collapse.
How should a chimney breast be removed?
Working with a professional to remove a chimney breast will guarantee that the task is done safely, correctly, and in accordance with the law. A structural engineer will visit your home to assess the situation and develop a plan of action, evaluating whether you need to install structural supports. The brickwork must be supported by something like a rolled steel joist if your chimney stack will remain in place. Depending on how much of the chimney breast you’re removing, you might also need to lengthen your roof timbers.
You must keep in mind that all planning and ideas for a chimney breast removal must go by the rules and requirements of your local building control office. Your neighbour must give their consent before any work can start under the Party Wall Act if your chimney breast is on a party wall. An area building control officer will inspect the completed work after it is finished. You’ll receive a certificate of completion if they judge it to be a successful completion.
How much does it cost to remove a chimney breast?
It can cost between £1,750 and £3,250 on average to remove a portion of a chimney breast in a single room and have the space filled in. After removing the chimney breast, ideas and motivation You may be astonished at how much larger the space feels once the chimney breast has been removed.
Crucial Steps to be taken
You should constantly inquire whether you need planning clearance, even if it’s not always necessary. Building codes, you must adhere to the building codes in order to guarantee the structural integrity and safety of the work being done. Partition Wall Act This is only required in England and Wales if your chimney breast is attached to a party wall that connects to an adjacent neighbour’s wall. You will also require a Landlord’s Licence if your home is leasehold.
