While there are general rules (walls running perpendicular to floor joists, walls directly under other walls above), the only definitive way to know is professional structural analysis. We see "obvious" non-load bearing walls that are structural and "obvious" load bearing walls that aren't.

Load bearing evaluation costs $400-800. If removal is feasible, engineering costs $1,200-3,500 and construction typically costs $2,000-15,000 depending on beam size and complexity. We provide detailed cost estimates after evaluation.

Most load bearing walls can be safely removed with proper engineering. We design beam systems to transfer loads around the removed wall. Very few walls are absolutely impossible to remove, though some may be cost-prohibitive.

Yes, California building codes require permits for any load bearing wall modification. Non-load bearing walls may not require permits, but you need professional evaluation to determine which category applies.

Evaluation takes 1-3 days, engineering takes 1-2 weeks, permits take 2-3 weeks, and construction takes 1-3 days for the actual removal. Total timeline is typically 6-8 weeks from start to completion.

We provide emergency evaluation of unauthorized removals and can design remediation if needed. It's better to address this professionally than risk structural problems or permit/insurance issues later.