Removal of chimney breast and supporting wall advice please

bobthedambuilder

thefreckle wrote: »

Fair enough, you could do that - the structural engineer I used included that in the price and if the builder gets something wrong (probably unlikely) then the structural engineer will charge you for any alterations as a result - whereas if the structural engineer gets it wrong then there'd be no additional cost

If the builder has based his price on incorrect dimensions / calculations by the structural engineer there's almost certain to be an additional cost of alterations.

A.L.D.A

thefreckle wrote: »

Fair enough, you could do that - the structural engineer I used included that in the price and if the builder gets something wrong (probably unlikely) then the structural engineer will charge you for any alterations as a result - whereas if the structural engineer gets it wrong then there'd be no additional cost

The structural engineer will measure the span, the walls and floors above and take into consideration the entire load the beam is carrying. He calculates and sizes the beam.

The builder builds that beam in. He measures the exact size he needs and orders it. There is reason for making him totally responsible for his part of the work. In a general sense it is always a good idea to make the builder entirely responsible for his work and how he does it! Failure to do this can leave you open to claims and liability.

In this case it is fairly trivial and I am knit picking, but people can cause utter confusion on building sites if they deviate from a clear chain of command. It becomes more complex when there are nominated sub-contractors say kitchen suppliers or electricians nominated by the employer.

Never ever forget that coordination needs to be through the contractor!!!!!!!!!!