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Look for walls that run perpendicular to floor joists, directly above foundation walls, or other walls stacked above them on upper floors. Walls with large beams or posts are load-bearing. However, visual inspection alone isn't always reliable. The safest approach is to consult with a structural engineer or experienced contractor who can examine your home's construction, possibly review building plans, or perform small exploratory openings to make a definitive determination.

Most municipalities require permits for wall removal, especially for load-bearing walls. These permits ensure that structural changes meet building codes and safety standards. Even non-load-bearing wall removal might require permits if electrical or plumbing modifications are involved. The permitting process includes submitting plans, paying fees, and scheduling inspections. Working without required permits can result in fines, complications when selling your home, and potential insurance issues if problems arise later.

A non-load-bearing wall removal project might take only one to two days for demolition and basic cleanup. Load-bearing wall projects require three to five days or more, depending on the complexity and need for structural support installation. The timeline will extend if your project involves rerouting utilities or extensive finishing work. Larger projects in multi-story homes may take up to two weeks to complete. Additionally, obtaining permits can add several weeks to your project timeline before work begins.