Do I Need A Structural Engineer To Remove A Load-Bearing Wall In Calgary?

Do I Need A Structural Engineer To Remove A Load-Bearing Wall In Calgary?

Yes, you do need a structural engineer to remove a load-bearing wall in Calgary. The City of Calgary requires a professional structural assessment and engineered drawings any time a structural element—such as a load-bearing wall—is removed or altered. This ensures your renovation meets the Alberta Building Code and does not compromise the safety or integrity of your home. At Calgary Structural Engineers, we provide site evaluations, engineered designs, and stamped drawings to support safe and compliant renovations.

Understanding Load-Bearing Walls in Residential Homes

What Is a Load-Bearing Wall?

A load-bearing wall is a wall that supports the weight of the structure above it, such as the floor or roof. These walls transfer loads down to the foundation. Unlike partition walls, removing a load-bearing wall without proper structural support can lead to sagging ceilings, cracking, or even collapse.

Common Situations Where Load-Bearing Walls Are Removed

• Creating open-concept layouts
• Combining rooms (e.g., kitchen and living room)
• Adding larger windows or patio doors
• Renovating basements

Removing these walls requires replacing their structural function with beams or other reinforcements.

What Does the City of Calgary Require for Load-Bearing Wall Removal?

Engineering & Permit Requirements

• Stamped Structural Drawings: Required for any structural changes
• Schedule B Letter: Confirms an engineer is responsible for the design
• Permit Application: Must include detailed engineering plans
• Schedule C Letter (if needed): Verifies construction was completed per engineered design

When Is a Permit Required?

You’ll need a permit when:

• You’re removing or relocating a structural wall
• Installing beams or columns to replace the wall
• Enlarging openings that affect structure

The Role of a Structural Engineer in Wall Removal Projects

Site Visit & Structural Review

We assess the home’s layout, existing loads, and framing to determine the safest approach to removing the wall.

Load Calculations

Our engineers calculate the loads carried by the wall and determine the size and material of any necessary beams, posts, or footings.

Engineering Design & Drawings

We produce stamped structural drawings detailing the beam placement, support posts, and installation methods required.

Construction Support & Inspections

We consult with contractors, answer structural questions during construction, and may perform site reviews if requested by the homeowner or the City.

Benefits of Hiring a Structural Engineer for Load-Bearing Wall Projects

Code Compliance

We ensure your project aligns with the Alberta Building Code and Calgary permitting standards.

Permit Approval

Engineering documents prepared by a licensed engineer help expedite permit approvals and avoid rejections.

Safety & Stability

We design solutions that maintain or enhance the structural stability of your home.

Peace of Mind

With liability-backed engineering and expert design, homeowners can move forward with confidence.

Risks of Removing a Load-Bearing Wall Without an Engineer

Structural Damage

Removing a load-bearing wall without a professional assessment can lead to structural sagging, floor deflection, or even collapse.

Permit Rejection

The City of Calgary will not approve permit applications involving structural changes unless drawings are prepared by a licensed engineer.

Inspection Failures

Even if construction has started, framing inspections may fail if no engineered drawings are provided.

Insurance & Resale Issues

Unpermitted structural changes can void home insurance policies or create issues during future property sales.

6 Common Questions About Removing Load-Bearing Walls in Calgary

Can any contractor remove a load-bearing wall?
No. Contractors must follow engineered plans, and the City requires a licensed structural engineer to design the modifications.

How do I know if a wall is load-bearing?
Generally, walls that run perpendicular to floor joists are load-bearing. However, confirmation requires a professional site review.

How much does it cost to hire a structural engineer?
Our fees typically range from $700 to $1,500 depending on complexity. We offer free quotes after an initial consultation.

How long does the engineering process take?
We usually provide stamped structural drawings within 3–5 business days after a site visit.

Do I need both Schedule B and Schedule C letters?
A Schedule B is always required. A Schedule C may be required if the City requests confirmation that the build matches the approved design.

Can I get a permit without an engineer?
Not if you're making structural changes. A structural engineer is mandatory for load-bearing wall removals.

Final Thoughts

So, do you need a structural engineer to remove a load-bearing wall in Calgary? Absolutely. Any modification to your home’s structure requires professional oversight to ensure safety, compliance, and long-term stability. Calgary Structural Engineers provides the expertise and documentation needed for a smooth renovation—from site evaluation to permit-ready drawings.

Calgary Structural Engineers is a trusted choice for residential structural engineering services in Calgary, Alberta. You can request a quote by calling us or requesting one online:

Request A Quote Online: https://calgarystructuralengineers.ca/request-a-quote

Call Us For A Quote: (587) 355-2031

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