Chimney Removal
Specialists London
How We Get Chimney Breast Removals Done Right in London
At Sandstone Engineering, chimney breast removals are our daily expertise. From the initial survey to the final plaster, every stage of the project is handled entirely by our team.
Here’s how we keep your project fast and efficient:
- We carry out a detailed survey before work begins, ensuring the correct steel beams and supports are on-site from day one.
- Building Control paperwork is completed upfront, with inspections already scheduled to avoid delays.
- Our team manages the entire job, including Party Wall agreements where needed, so nothing stalls halfway through.
We also know London homes inside out. Whether it’s a Victorian terrace with a shared chimney, or a Georgian townhouse with thick brickwork, we’ve handled it all. Understanding the structure allows us to plan carefully, avoid surprises, and complete the work quickly and safely. Most projects are finished within just 3–5 days.
Our Chimney Removal Services
Full Chimney Stack & Breast Removal
Complete removal of the chimney inside and out, including the stack above the roof. We handle making good to the roof and affected floors/ceilings as well as the removal if the chimney.
Chimney Breast Removal Only
Remove just the chimney breast to free up and modernise space inside your home. We handle the structural support and all demolition safely.
Partial Chimney Breast Removal
Hollow out the centre of the breast for extra room without the need for a party wall agreement.
What’s Included in Every Chimney Breast Removal
In-house structural engineering calculations
Steel beam supply & installation
Building Control applications & inspections
Party Wall agreements arranged (if needed)
Safe removal & waste disposal
Plastering & skimming ready for redecoration
Our Seamless Process
01
Initial Survey & Assessment
Our structural engineers visit your property to inspect the chimney, take precise measurements for steel supports, and plan the safest removal method.
02
Building Control & Permissions
We submit the Building Control application before starting on site and ensure the initial inspection is booked in advance, avoiding long delays and keeping your project on schedule
03
Chimney Removal & Structural Support
he team removes the chimney or chimney breast safely, installing steel beams where needed to maintain structural integrity.
04
Finished Product
Walls are made good, floors repaired, and the space is ready for decorating — a clean, safe, and usable area.
Searching for Chimney Removal Near Me? Let’s Get Started Today!
If you’re in London and searching for chimney removal near me, Sandstone Engineering is the trusted choice. Call us today to book your free site inspection and get a fast, no-obligation quote.
The Benefits of Removing Chimney Breast
More Space
Free up valuable square footage in your home.
Improved Layout
Easier furniture placement and open-plan design.
Modern Aesthetics
A clean, streamlined look.
Property Value
Added space in London homes increases desirability.
Energy Efficiency
Insulated voids improve heating and cooling.
Stress-Free Project
With Sandstone Engineering, everything is managed for you.
Testimonials
The Rules and Regulations to Follow, to Remove a Chimney
Building Regulations
As experts in chimney removal, we follow the standards outlined in the Building Regulations 2010, which require a thorough inspection by a local Building Control officer to ensure the work meets key safety and quality requirements, such as maintaining structural integrity, implementing fire safety measures, meeting sound insulation standards, preserving neighbouring chimneys, preventing damp issues, and ensuring adequate ventilation in the affected rooms.
Party Wall Act
If your chimney breast shares a wall with a neighbour, a Party Wall Agreement may be required. This ensures any structural changes are agreed upon and avoids disputes. We can also manage this process on your behalf, making sure everything is handled smoothly, saving you time and reducing the risk of conflict.
Planning Permission
Removing an internal chimney breast usually doesn’t require permission, but listed buildings, conservation areas, or removal of the external stack may need official approval. Checking with your local authority prevents unexpected delays or fines.
Why London’s Homeowners Choose Us?
Choosing the right people matters. At Sandstone Engineering, we combine experience, practical know-how, and speed to finish your project without fuss.
Fastest turnaround in London
Projects completed in as little as 3–5 days.
Trusted expertise
In-house structural engineering and years of experience.
Complete service
From survey to removal and building control completion certificate.
Reliable & insured
Fully compliant with £5m public liability as well as £1m professional indemnity cover.
FAQS
What is a chimney breast?
A chimney breast is the portion of brickwork that surrounds a chimney as it rises through your property. It usually protrudes into rooms, taking up space, and in terraced or semi-detached houses, it can be shared with a neighbour.
Can I remove my chimney breast?
Yes, but it’s structural work, so you’ll need a qualified team and a structural engineer to assess the building and plan the supports. You can remove the full stack, just the breast, or partially hollow it out depending on your needs.
How long does it take to remove a chimney breast?
It depends on the scope. Every project is different, and planning helps avoid delays. Usually, the full process with Sandstone Engineering takes 3–5 days.
Do I need planning permission?
Usually not for internal work, but if your property is listed or you’re removing the external stack, you may need approval. Always check with your local council to be safe.
What about Party Wall requirements?
If your chimney breast shares a wall with a neighbour, a Party Wall Agreement may be required. This ensures any structural changes are agreed upon and avoids disputes. We can also manage this process on your behalf, making sure everything is handled smoothly, saving you time and reducing the risk of conflict.
Do I need a structural engineer?
Yes. A structural engineer will calculate the necessary supports and ensure the building stays safe during and after removal.
What happens after the chimney is removed?
The space is made good — walls plastered, floors repaired, and the area left ready for decorating. You’ll end up with more space and a clean finish.
Will removing a chimney breast make my house unsafe?
Not if it’s done properly. A structural engineer checks exactly what supports are needed, and we install steel beams where required, so your home stays solid and safe.
Can I remove just part of a chimney breast?
Yes. Partial removal can free up space without affecting the structure above, and often avoids costly Party Wall agreements. It’s a smart option for London terraces or flats.
How disruptive is chimney removal?
It’s dusty work, but our team works efficiently and keeps the mess under control. Most projects are finished in 3–5 days, and we make sure walls, floors, and surrounding areas are left clean. We also use floor covers such as Correx to protect floor finishes, and use door covers to minimise dust to the rest of the house.
Do I need to inform my neighbours?
If the chimney is shared with a neighbour, yes — you need to serve a Party Wall Notice. A simple conversation beforehand can save a lot of headaches.
Does chimney removal add value to my home?
It can. Freeing up space and improving room layout is very appealing in London properties, especially period homes where every square foot counts.
What types of London homes can you work on?
We’ve removed chimneys in Victorian terraces, Georgian townhouses, and classic London terraced houses, so we know the quirks of every property type and how to plan the job safely.
Can removing a chimney breast cause damp or structural problems?
Not if it’s done correctly. Proper supports, insulation, and ventilation prevent damp and maintain structural integrity — mistakes only happen when corners are cut.
Projects
Project 323 – Waldegrave Road
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Project 280 – Barn Hill
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Project 492 – Bideford Road
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