Check the building plans or structural drawings
Look for walls that run perpendicular to floor joists or roof rafters
Identify walls stacked directly above beams, posts, or foundation walls
Check whether the wall supports another floor, roof, or attic load
Look for walls aligned with major beams or girders in the basement or crawlspace
Measure wall thickness; load-bearing walls are often thicker, but not always
Inspect for doubled joists, headers, or beams above the wall
Look for walls that continue from the foundation to the roof
Check if the wall supports a central span in the structure
Consult a structural engineer or qualified contractor if unsure