How to tell if this wall is load bearing

Adam12321

Ok, So I have made an offer on a property and I want to change the design of the kitchen.

Currently the boiler is in a cupboard type room with a door, when knocking the wall to the side it sounds hollow.

It's a Dorma bungalow. Is there anyway to tell if this is a load bearing wall for certain? That way I can get a new kitchen and put the boiler in a kitchen unit instead of its own room!

I dunno how to add the image to this thread.

G_M

Knocking on a wall is a good indication.


A plasterboard wall will sound hollow. A solid wall will not.


But that is just a crude test. If this issue is a show-stopper for you (ie you would not buy the property is the wall is load-bearing) then instruct a Structural Engineer to tell you.

Davesnave

While it's probably not load bearing, taking away a supporting wall usually involves the insertion of a suitable steel beam, perhaps costing an extra £1k for a small span.


By the way, there's no such thing as a 'dorma' bungalow, even if Pavarotti himself once lived in it. The term comes from the use of dormer windows.