Should my architect be able to do this?

Question

I need to know whether I have a load bearing wall in my house before it gets ripped down. The architect has only just mentioned that we should maybe check it out (even though he's already charged over £200 for supposed investigative work) We have tried to do it ourselves and even though the rafters look like it's not load bearing as they go in the same direction, part of the wall also goes down into the foundations which makes us a bit suspicious. so, we need to get it checked out for sure - but by whom? A structural engineer? is it our responsibility or should our architect have sorted all this out for us? Help!

Answer 1

this is completely the architects responsibility, im asuming he came to field measure your house and then draw it on the computer. well how is he going to design a new addition or do renovations to the old house if he doesnt know how it is built. if u want the walll removed he must know what affect it will have on the house. have you called him and asked him? is he a real prick? he wont even tell u him self or find out for you? i wouldnt trust the renovation being designed properly if he cant even give you information about a wall in your house

Answer 2

Yes, you need a structural engineer. Yes, you are responsible, if not only for your safety. The architect should be answering the question not asking.

Answer 3

Go to the building department and check the permit that was taken out when the house was built the permit will tell you if its a baring wall best of all it is all free public information your welcome Simba

Answer 4

JUST ABOUT ALL WALLS ARE LOAD BEARING... IF NOT CARRYING THE JOIST IN ONE ROOM, THEN MAYBE THE ROOM NEXT TO IT! ..... & THEN YOU HAVE LOAD BEARING WALLS THAT CARRY ROOF BRACING.

IT'S SIMPLE TO TEAR THEM OUT, YOU JUST HAVE TO BUILD A TEMPERORY WALL TO HOLD IT UNTIL YOU INSTALL THE DROP BEAM / FLUSH BEAM!