Chimney & Fireplace

Removing a chimney breast - how can I found out if chimney breasts in loft are safe and supported?

Anonymous user 03/03/2024 - 3.10 PM

My house is ex local authority in County Durham and was built in 1950. From speaking to my neighbours, I believe all three bedrooms, the dining room and living room had a coal fire. When we purchased the house in 2007, the only rooms with chimney breasts are the living room and the loft (two - one on each side of the roof with the stacks outside still in place). I have a couple of questions, 1. how can I find out if the breasts in the loft are safe and have been supported? 2. how easy would it be to remove the chimney breast in my living room? Please note that the chimney breast in the living room is a party wall. A few people have said get a structural engineer in but to be honest I wouldn't know where to start and how costly their advice would be. Grateful for any help. Thanks :)