How much does it cost to remove a chimney breast?
Chimney breast removal is structural work needing support for what's left above. Get an indicative figure below.
What chimney removal involves
- 1Support what remains
Any breast left above must be supported on gallows brackets or a beam — designed by an engineer.
- 2Remove and make good
Take down the breast, then patch floor, wall and ceiling where it stood.
- 3Building control
Structural calculations and building control sign-off are required for the support solution.
Removing a chimney breast reclaims useful floor area in bedrooms and reception rooms — a modest but genuine value-add. Because it's structural, always budget the engineer and building control alongside the labour.
Chimney breast removal costs (indicative)
| Scope | Description | Indicative cost |
|---|---|---|
| One floor (with support) | Gallows brackets/beam | £1,500 – £2,800 |
| Two floors | More support & make-good | £2,500 – £4,500 |
| Full stack (incl. roof) | Scaffold + roof repair | £3,500 – £6,000+ |
| Structural calcs | Engineer | £300 – £600 |
Remaining breast above must be supported. Building control and engineer's calcs required.
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to remove a chimney breast?+
Removing a chimney breast on one floor with proper support typically costs £1,500–£2,800; removing the full stack including roof works costs more. Engineer's calcs and building control are required.
Can I remove just one section of chimney breast?+
Yes, but the masonry above must be supported (gallows brackets or a beam) to a structural engineer's design — you can't simply remove a lower section and leave the rest unsupported.
Related tools & guides
Want to know how these figures are calculated? See our cost methodology.
Cost figures shown are indicative estimates, not quotations. You are responsible for verifying all costs (obtain contractor quotes) and any figures submitted to a lender. ScopeWise is a documentation tool, not financial, tax, structural or planning advice. HMO compliance prompts are guidance only — confirm requirements with your local council, as standards and licensing vary by authority.