If you’re planning building works to a wall you share with a neighbour—or even digging new foundations close to their property—you may need to involve a Party Wall Surveyor. This is because your project could fall under the Party Wall etc. Act 1996, a law designed to protect both you and your neighbour when works affect shared structures or boundaries.
Why This Matters
Party Wall Surveyors are most often called in when:
- Work is being carried out on a shared wall (a party wall).
- Excavations are planned within 3 metres (sometimes 6 metres) of a neighbouring building.
Failing to follow the proper process could delay your project or even lead to disputes—so understanding the basics is essential.
The Party Wall Act in a Nutshell
The Act applies across England and Wales (but not in Scotland) and sets out the legal framework for building near or on shared walls and boundaries.
To make this easier to understand, we’ve created a short blog series breaking down the key points. This post kicks things off with the types of work that trigger the Act.
When You Need a Party Wall Surveyor
1. Building on the Boundary Line
If you plan to build a new wall on (or astride) the boundary line—commonly for rear extensions—you must serve your neighbour with a Line of Junction Notice (Section 1 Notice).
2. Altering a Shared Wall
Works to an existing party wall also require notice. Examples include:
- Raising the height of the wall
- Removing a chimney breast
- Inserting beams (e.g. for a loft conversion)
- Removing projections or structures that impede new works
In this case, you’d serve a Party Structure Notice (Section 3 Notice).
3. Excavations Near a Neighbour’s Building
If your works involve digging within 3 metres of a neighbouring property—and deeper than their foundations—you’ll need to serve a Section 6 Notice (often called a “3-metre notice”). This usually applies to foundations, drainage, or basement works.
Overlapping Works
It’s quite common for home improvements to trigger more than one notice. For example, if you’re building a rear extension, removing a chimney breast, and converting the loft, you may need to serve multiple notices under different sections of the Act.
Why Choose a Qualified Party Wall Surveyor?
Our team at Simple Survey provides Party Wall services to both domestic and commercial clients across England and Wales.
Final Thoughts
Party Wall procedures can seem complex, but the right guidance makes all the difference. Getting expert advice early on ensures your project runs smoothly, keeps you compliant with the law, and avoids costly disputes with neighbours.
đź“© Thinking about building work? Get in touch with our expert surveyors today at team@simplesurvey.co.uk for friendly, no-obligation advice.