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Use drawings as a starting point
Original plans and later alteration drawings can show intended supports. They must be checked against the actual building because construction or previous renovations may differ from the records.
Look beyond the room
Floor spans, roof supports, stacked walls and neighbouring openings affect the assessment. A wall may provide stability as well as vertical support, so its role is not always obvious from above.
Ask for a qualified assessment
A structural engineer can determine what information and site investigation are needed. Treat online rules of thumb as orientation rather than permission to remove or chase a wall.
Before changing the layout
Once the wall's function is established, develop the structural solution and check permissions. Include service relocation, temporary support and finishing in the project scope before obtaining a final execution quote.