Editorial team: HXR Bouw en Ontwikkeling · Updated 12 November 2026
At a glance: establish a wall’s function before creating an opening. Altering a load-bearing structure requires structural design and assessment of permit requirements. Do not begin demolition on an assumption.
A floor plan does not tell the whole story
A wall’s thickness or position is not enough to establish for yourself whether it is load-bearing. Gather existing drawings and have the actual structure assessed. Earlier alterations may mean the building differs from available documents.
Have the load path assessed
When removing a load-bearing element, it must be clear how the load will be supported and transferred downwards afterwards. The solution depends on the existing building. A beam size from a similar home is therefore not a suitable construction specification for your project.
Check permits and owners’ association consent
IPLO identifies removing a load-bearing wall as an example of a technical building activity requiring a permit. Have the complete intervention assessed for your address. In an apartment, division documents and any required owners’ association consent also need investigation.
Agree investigations and construction arrangements
- Who checks the existing structure and provides the structural design?
- Are further surveys needed before the solution is final?
- How will services running through the wall be handled?
- What protection and temporary measures form part of construction?
- Which finishes around the new opening are included?
Include making good in the plan
A new opening often affects more than the wall. Consider ceilings, skirting boards, floors and painting. Include these in the scope. Discuss whether existing materials remain available or visible differences may remain.
Frequently asked question: can the beam be ordered straight away?
An order can only be responsibly prepared once the design and relevant dimensions have been sufficiently checked. Agree who confirms the final information and which conditions must be met before construction.
Sources
IPLO: permits and notifications for technical building activities
Discuss your plans
Want to know what this means for your home? Discuss your renovation plans or call +31 70 204 22 11.