This is the fifth article in Pinnacle Design and Build’s 10-part series on ADUs and major home renovations. Wall removal is one of the most requested remodel features, but not all walls are created equal. This guide will help you identify which walls are safe to remove, what signs to look for, and when to call a pro.

Load-bearing walls support the structure above them—whether it's a ceiling, second floor, or roof. Removing them without proper support can cause major structural failure. Nonload-bearing walls usually divide rooms and can be safely removed with less hassle.

- Is the wall perpendicular to floor joists above?

- Does it run down the center of the house?

- Does it align with beams or walls in the basement or attic?

- Is it made of thicker framing or support materials?

These are red flags that the wall may be load-bearing.

MYTH: 'If it's drywall, it can't be structural.'

MYTH: 'The last contractor said it was fine.'

FACT: Even interior walls can carry structural loads. Always check before you swing the hammer

Structural walls often carry plumbing, electrical, or HVAC ductwork. A wall might not be load-bearing but still require rerouting vital systems—affecting budget and timeline.

In most cities, removing a load-bearing wall requires a permit and a structural engineer’s input. Even for non-structural walls, cities like Los Angeles require plan approval for layout changes. Pinnacle Design and Build helps you navigate this process.

If you’re unsure whether a wall is load-bearing, always consult a pro. Pinnacle Design and Build offers structural assessments and design plans to ensure safe wall removal that improves flow—without compromising integrity. Thinking about knocking down a wall in your home?

Contact Pinnacle Design and Build for a free structural walk-through. We'll help you determine what's safe, what's possible, and how to do it right.