Service

Structural Alterations

Structural engineering for commercial buildings undergoing alteration, refurbishment or change of use — from the initial feasibility question through to a design your contractor can price and build.

Whether removing structural walls, forming new openings, installing mezzanine floors, introducing platform lifts, increasing floor loadings, reconfiguring internal layouts or converting a building to an alternative use, Tashi Structures provides practical engineering solutions tailored to the operational and commercial requirements of each project. Particular consideration is given to construction sequencing, temporary stability, buildability and maintaining business continuity where works are undertaken within occupied premises.

Our services include structural inspections, feasibility assessments, structural calculations, mezzanine floor design, change of use appraisals, platform lift installations, refurbishment schemes and strengthening works associated with altered loading requirements or proposed redevelopment. Existing buildings are assessed to establish their suitability for proposed modifications and to identify any strengthening, repair or alteration works required to safely accommodate the intended use.

Tashi Structures also provides investigation, design and specification of structural repair and strengthening solutions where deterioration, damage, corrosion, overloading or historic alterations have affected the performance of a building.

Information is presented in a clear and practical format suitable for Building Control approval, planning support, contractor pricing and construction, helping owners, developers, architects and contractors deliver projects efficiently and with confidence.

Key points

Removing structural walls and forming openings
Mezzanine floors and platform lifts
Increasing floor loadings for new use
Reconfiguring layouts and change of use
Temporary stability and construction sequencing
Building Control and planning support

When you need this

Most commercial alteration projects need structural input where the building’s load paths are affected — taking out a wall, cutting a new opening, adding a mezzanine, installing a lift, or raising floor loadings for a different use. Input is also valuable where works must proceed in occupied premises and business continuity matters.

Frequently asked questions

Can alterations be carried out while the premises stay in use?

Often, yes. We consider construction sequencing, temporary stability and buildability so that works can be phased around continued occupation where the layout and programme allow.

Do I need Building Control approval for commercial alterations?

Structural alterations to a commercial building generally require Building Control approval. We provide the calculations and details needed to support that process, and can liaise with the Building Control body as required.

Can you assess whether a wall is load-bearing before we commit?

Yes. A feasibility inspection establishes which elements are structural and what would be involved in altering them, so you can plan the project and budget with confidence before design begins.

Will the design be suitable for contractor pricing?

We produce calculations and details intended for tender and construction, giving contractors the information they need to price the works accurately and build them safely.

Can you support a change of use application?

Yes. Where a change of use brings higher floor loadings or layout changes, we assess the existing structure, design any strengthening required and provide supporting information for planning and Building Control.