Load-bearing wall removal quote checklist: what each quote should include

Removing a load-bearing wall involves several trades: an engineer, a framing crew, often an electrician or a plumber, and finishers. Quotes vary mostly by what they include. Ask each contractor to state the same points in writing.

Structure

1. Engineering: who provides the beam calculation, and whether the engineer's site visit is included.
2. Permit: who applies, who pays the fees, and which inspections are planned.
3. Shoring: temporary walls on both sides while the wall is removed.
4. Beam: type (dropped or flush), material and size, as on the plan.
5. Posts and footings: new footings in the basement or crawl space if needed.

What is inside the wall

6. Electrical: outlets, switches and circuits to move.
7. Plumbing and ducts: drains, vents or ductwork in the wall can change the plan, or the cost, a lot.
8. Older homes: homes built before 1978 may have lead paint; contractors disturbing it must follow EPA lead-safe work practices. Older materials may also contain asbestos, which a professional should test before it is disturbed.

Finishing and site

9. Repairs: ceiling and wall drywall, flooring where the wall stood, paint, trim.
10. Dust and protection: plastic barriers, floor protection, daily cleanup and debris removal.
11. Schedule, insurance and payment: duration, liability insurance, license where required, deposit and payment steps.

Red flags

Be cautious if a contractor proposes to remove the wall without shoring, says no permit is needed, or asks for full payment up front. The FTC recommends a written contract that describes the work, the schedule and the payments.

Get comparable quotes

Describe your wall in the form: licensed contractors and engineers in your area get back to you. Not sure yet whether the wall is load-bearing? Start with the clues to look for.