Common Mistakes When Removing Interior Walls (and How to Avoid Them)

Wall removal can completely transform a Perth home — turning dark, boxy rooms into light-filled open spaces perfect for modern living. But as exciting as it sounds, it’s not as simple as knocking down a wall with a hammer.

Every year, homeowners attempt DIY wall removal or hire the wrong contractor, only to run into costly mistakes that could have been avoided. From structural missteps to hidden surprises behind the plaster, there are pitfalls at every stage.

In this guide, we’ll unpack the most common mistakes people make when removing interior walls, why they matter, and how to avoid them. Whether you’re planning to create an open-plan kitchen or connect your living and dining rooms, learning these lessons will help you achieve the result you want — safely, legally, and cost-effectively.

Mistake 1: Misidentifying a Load-Bearing Wall

The biggest and most dangerous mistake is assuming a wall isn’t structural when it actually is. Removing a load-bearing wall without support can cause:

• Sagging ceilings
• Cracked plaster
• Uneven floors
• In severe cases, roof or structural collapse

How to avoid it:
Always get a professional assessment. A builder or structural engineer can inspect the layout, check the roof space, and confirm whether a wall is load-bearing. In Perth, council permits are required for structural wall removal, so this step is unavoidable if you want to stay compliant.

Mistake 2: Ignoring Council Approval

Many homeowners believe they can just remove a wall without notifying anyone. In Perth, this can lead to fines, insurance issues, or problems when selling the home.

How to avoid it:

• Contact your local council to confirm requirements.
• For load-bearing walls, a building permit and engineering drawings are mandatory.
• Use a licensed builder who can handle the paperwork for you.

Mistake 3: Overlooking Hidden Services

Walls are often home to electrical wiring, plumbing, or air-conditioning ducts. Ripping out a wall without checking can result in expensive repairs, safety hazards, or even flooding.

How to avoid it:

• Engage qualified electricians and plumbers to relocate services before demolition.
• Budget extra for rerouting — it’s cheaper than fixing emergency damage.

Mistake 4: Choosing the Wrong Support Beam

Even when homeowners know a wall is load-bearing, they sometimes choose an undersized or inappropriate support beam. This leads to sagging or cracking over time.

How to avoid it:

• Only install beams designed by a structural engineer.
• In Perth, steel (RSJ) or LVL beams are most common.
• Ensure correct installation with temporary props until the beam is secured.

Mistake 5: Underestimating Dust and Debris

Demolishing a wall creates far more dust and mess than most people expect. Without preparation, fine brick and plaster dust can spread throughout your home.

How to avoid it:

• Seal off adjacent rooms with plastic sheeting.
• Use dust extraction equipment where possible.
• Move or cover furniture and valuables.

Mistake 6: Forgetting Finishing Touches

Many people focus only on demolition but forget about what comes after: patching floors, blending ceilings, repainting, or replacing cornices. Poor finishing work can make a wall removal look unprofessional.

How to avoid it:

• Plan your budget to include plastering, painting, and flooring.
• Match materials (tiles, floorboards, carpets) carefully for a seamless look.
• Hire experienced trades who specialise in renovation finishing.

Mistake 7: DIY Without Experience

DIY wall removal might look easy on renovation shows, but the risks far outweigh the savings. Structural safety, compliance, and finishing all require professional skill.

How to avoid it:

• Leave structural demolition to licensed builders.
• If you want to save money, focus on prep work like clearing the space or painting afterwards.

Mistake 8: Poor Planning of Layout

Sometimes homeowners remove a wall without fully considering how the new space will function. This can result in awkward furniture placement, poor acoustics, or spaces that don’t flow.

How to avoid it:

• Work with a designer or builder to visualise the final layout.
• Consider lighting, furniture, and traffic flow before demolition.
• Think ahead about how your family will use the space in five to ten years.

Mistake 9: Forgetting Resale Value

Removing walls may make a space more open, but in some cases it can reduce the number of rooms in the house. Fewer bedrooms or a missing study might hurt resale value.

How to avoid it:

• Balance open-plan living with practical needs.
• If you remove a bedroom, ensure the remaining layout still appeals to buyers.
• Consult a real estate agent before major changes.

Perth Case Study: Costly DIY Gone Wrong

A homeowner in Joondanna attempted to remove a wall between the kitchen and dining area without council approval or professional input. The wall turned out to be load-bearing, and within weeks cracks appeared in the ceiling. Repairs required an emergency structural beam, replastering, and repainting — costing over three times what a planned removal would have.

FAQs

Can I remove a non-structural wall without approval?
Some councils may allow it, but always check. Even non-structural changes can trigger permit requirements.

How much does fixing a botched wall removal cost?
Repairs can cost thousands, especially if structural beams need retrofitting after the fact.

Is wall removal noisy?
Yes — expect demolition noise, especially in brick homes. Most projects can be completed in a few days, with finishing taking longer.

How do I know if I’m hiring the right contractor?
Ask about licensing, insurance, experience with structural work, and whether they handle council approvals.

Key Takeaways

• Mistakes in wall removal can be costly and dangerous.
• The biggest risks involve load-bearing walls, hidden services, and poor finishing.
• Perth homeowners must follow council regulations and use qualified professionals.
• With proper planning, wall removal can safely deliver brighter, more open living spaces.

Final Word

Removing an interior wall is one of the most effective ways to modernise a Perth home — but it’s also one of the riskiest if done incorrectly. By avoiding the common mistakes outlined here and engaging trusted professionals, you can achieve the open-plan lifestyle you want without costly setbacks.

👉 Contact Wall Removals Perth today for expert advice and a free consultation.