Structural Engineer for Load-Bearing Wall Removal
Removing a load-bearing wall changes how roof and floor loads reach the foundation. We calculate the replacement beam, posts, connections, and supporting footings, then prepare the structural drawings typically needed for a building permit.
- Typical engineering timeline
- 1–2 weeks
- Permit required?
- Yes — before structural work
- What you receive
- Beam calculations and permit drawings
- Cost basis
- Free review; fixed proposal after scope
Timelines and fee basis are CMZStudio planning estimates based on industry experience. They are not City processing times, official fee schedules, or a project-specific proposal.
Is this your situation?
- Open-concept kitchen and great-room remodels
- New openings in exterior or interior bearing walls
- Flush or concealed beam design
- Projects with new point loads over existing framing or foundations
What you receive
Every engagement ends in signed documents your contractor can build from and the city can approve.
- 01
Load-path assessment
We identify what the wall supports and where the replacement loads must go.
- 02
Beam and post calculations
We size the beam, posts, connections, and any required footing upgrades.
- 03
Structural permit drawings
We show the new opening, member sizes, connections, and construction notes clearly.
How the engineering is done
- 1
Share
Send the address, proposed opening, photos, and architectural drawings if available.
- 2
Confirm
Verify joist, rafter, and wall directions plus the foundation below.
- 3
Calculate
Size the replacement system and check every concentrated load.
- 4
Document
Deliver structural calculations and drawings for permit and construction.
Lei Zheng
Founder & Principal Engineer, CMZStudio
California Professional Engineer
Licensed engineering from first calculation through plan check.
Lei Zheng has held a California Civil Engineer license since 2006. At CMZStudio, he reviews structural decisions, prepares and stamps engineering documents, and supports responses through city plan check.
Official California DCA record
C-69809
- License holder
- Lei Zheng
- License type
- Civil Engineer
- Issued
- March 17, 2006
Status verified July 23, 2026
- California-licensed
- 20 years
- Official DCA record
- C-69809
Direct answers before you call
The permit jurisdiction and site conditions control the final scope. We confirm both during the free initial review.
See the engineering in context
Verify the requirements
These California sources support the licensing, code, and compliance information on this page.
Request a free structural review
Prefer to talk? +1 510-277-7700 · Mon–Fri · 9:00–18:00