Well, IMHO a good GC can probably say if it IS a load bearing wall, but legally, an engineer can say it is NOT a load bearing wall.

As long as all finishes are down (framing exposed), I don't see why not.
Casey

I don't think a contractor would cost you that much less. And you would have zero legal recourse if his opinion was wrong, as he isn't technically qualified to give an opinion on the subject. You also may need the engineer's report for the permits application from your municipality. You need to check with them about any design drawings and inspections that they require for the project.

Any contractor worth his salt can give you that, as a part of a FREE estimate.

Sometimes you can go into the attic yourself to figure it out.

If the OP could figure out for her/him self if a wall is load bearing, there wouldn't be a post here.

The only reliable method is to use a structural engineer. While on site, the engineer could also likely give some useful advice about what you may have in mind and its feasibility.

Good luck with your project.

I would like to say a general contractor can not be much reliable in this case.But if you consult some design engineer for the right architecture this will be great.

Here is a link that might be useful: Storage and Removal Services

If the GC can't figure out if it's load bearing or not then you need to find a new GC.

You will need to find an engineer to determine any changes if it's a bearing wall.

The permit folks won't take years of experience. They want that piece of paper.

Agreed GC should know if it is load bearing or not however, GC will not be able to tell you what you must do if it is (beam, posts, does it sit on top of basement-do you need reinforcement below, etc. My structural engineer cost S200-well worth the money