Reconstruction and Reno of my landed

[snoozee 98]

3 hours ago, Topline said:

Does any one know whether in a reconstruction, it is ok to remove old columns or beams on the common wall that are not supporting anything? My friend was told that her PE said the authorities will not allow for her project … sounds silly to me.

Common wall as in party wall? If on your side can remove. If shared between 2 houses unlikely to allow since this can affect the structural integrity of the other house. 
for beams usually can terminate on your side but columns are no if shared. 
the PE isn’t called a PE for no reason. Likely the structural plans had been viewed or on site visit done before leading to the conclusion. If your friend is not happy can always seek second opinions. Some PE might be more gung-ho and might say yes to your friend

but ultimately every demolition plan needs to go through BCA for approval. So if BCA doesn’t allow still back to square one.