Why freeholders ask for a report
A freeholder is responsible for the whole building and for the other flats in it. Before agreeing to an alteration, sometimes called a licence to alter or a right of alteration, they need to be satisfied that the work will not weaken the building or affect the flats above and below.
What our report covers
- The existing structure around the proposed work, and how loads currently travel through it.
- What you plan to change, and whether the wall is load-bearing.
- The new support needed, such as beams, posts and padstones, with calculations where required.
- How the work should be carried out safely, including temporary support.
- Any effect on the rest of the building, the common parts and neighbouring flats.
We write it so the freeholder's surveyor can review it quickly, and we will answer their questions.
Consent is separate from Building Control
Freeholder consent and Building Regulations approval are two different things, and structural work in a flat normally needs both. Our wall removal calculations serve Building Control, and can be prepared at the same time as the consent report.
Common questions
Do I need consent to remove a non-load-bearing wall?
Often, yes. Many leases require consent for any alteration, structural or not. Check your lease, and if in doubt ask the managing agent. Our report can confirm that a wall is not load-bearing, which helps the freeholder agree quickly.
Will you need access to other flats?
Not usually, but seeing the flat above, or the common parts, can help confirm how the structure works. We will tell you if it would make a difference.
