Breaking chimneys in a house

psd99

psd99

psd99

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I'm looking to get the chimneys taken out to make the semi detached house a bit bigger.

What is a realistic quote in the London region to get this work completed?

Possibly considering to attempt this myself along with 4/5 people should the quotes be too high.
 
Yeah I guess you'd probably have to do some structural work, although having said that, you will be filling in the holes where the fireplace was so maybe that would help.

Good luck!
 
Sounds like a very expensive and very complex job due to neighbours. What you gain in space I imagine you have to use for building a stud wall (to sound proof) against it.
 
the fact that you're asking shows that it's not a DIY job.

As already mentioned, there are many complications and your best bet is to speak to your neighbours about it as they might like to do it at the same time, then get professionals in to do the job.

Might also need to speak to insurance just to let them know.
 
Depending on the structure and which wall it's on costs from very little to quite a bit. You could need a structural design, steel work, temporary works, party wall agreement, asbestos survey, asbestos removal and making good.

My guess is you'll this find the quotes are far too much and attempt it yourself. Only then will you realise the work involved.
 
It does require structural work as it needs supporting just under the roof structure. Also be aware it is very noisy work which will annoy your neighbours endlessly so make sure you have all agreements in place.
 
cadmunkey said:
It does require structural work as it needs supporting just under the roof structure. Also be aware it is very noisy work which will annoy your neighbours endlessly so make sure you have all agreements in place.
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Personally, i'd look at removing it above the roof as well and get a roofer into sort it out. but again, this adds to the cost
 
thanks for the replies guys.

I'm going to ring the council about this and I will get some quotes in.

I will ask the builders if they can put that type of beam/support that will allow me to do a possible loft extension in the future.
 
AHarvey said:
Personally, i'd look at removing it above the roof as well and get a roofer into sort it out. but again, this adds to the cost
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Depends where in London he lives, if he's in a conservation area he will need planning permission for this. Usually better to leave the chimney in place above roof to avoid the hassle.
 
psd99 said:
yer I am not going to remove it above the roof wth!?

why would one do this?
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Otherwise you would have no chimney on two floors yet need to put an rsj or similar to support chimney above loft level. Alternatively remove chimney stack and patch roof I guess.
 
I would get a builder to do the first section in the loft as they will need to install steel supports for the structure above. Once that's done the job of removing the bersts in the room is easy. Messy but easy. You will then need to make good the floors ceilings and effected walls.

This all depends on your diy skill level of course.

In addition you may/will have to;
Inform the neighbour under thee party wall act search online for details
Inform building control
Ensure the supports are designed by a structural engineer ##edit I believe its called a gallows bracket
 
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thanks doughnu007 - I'm thinking along the same lines.
get the builder to secure in the loft and put the metal beam up.

I want to break both ceilings downstairs anyway and get plaster boards in
but will patch up both bedrooms prob need a replaster judging by the condition of the walls.

see I'd rather save money here on the destruction of the chimneys because I can't plaster very well.
 
I'm no legal eagle on this but it is my understanding, assuming the chimney breast is on the party wall, that you would be liable for the neighbours costs for a structural assessment to demonstrate there is no risk to their property.

The party wall act places significant onus on the person making the change bearing the cost. Citizens advice may be able to help or the Government planning portal.

Yes you can leave the chimney up and it is often easier but you need to make sure it is adequately supported. This one assumes will be from the remaining chimney breast shared with your neighbour. So in effect you are supporting your redundant stack off the party wall and their breast.
 
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