The Party Wall etc. Act 1996 applies to specific types of construction activities. Below is an overview of common works that require Party Wall procedures:
Internal Works
Chimney Breast Removal
Removing a party wall chimney breast and adding structural supports for the remaining stack falls under the Party Wall Act.
Removing Walls Tied into the Party Wall
Internal non-loadbearing walls attached to a party wall, such as when creating open-plan spaces, are also covered.
Internal Excavations
Basement projects often require ground beams or pad foundations. Excavations affecting neighbouring foundations fall under the Act.
Loft Conversions
Loft conversions commonly involve party wall work. This requires:
- Exposing the party wall by removing roof coverings.
- Cutting into the wall to insert support beams.
Extensions
Front, side, and rear extensions are primary projects that fall under Party Wall procedures. Requirements include:
- Excavations deeper than the original foundations.
- Building new flank walls up to or astride the boundary.
Basement Conversions
Basement extensions require compliance with the Party Wall Act. Deep excavations and underpinning of existing party walls must follow notice and procedural requirements.
New Walls
Two scenarios under the Act:
- Boundary walls astride the legal boundary – require the adjoining owner’s permission.
- Walls up to the boundary but not crossing it – permission not required.
Both types still require Party Wall Notices.
Other Works
Changing Roof Coverings
Removing old roof tiles exposes the party wall and falls under the Act.
Demolishing a Party Wall Structure
Removal of outhouses, extensions, or storage buildings attached to the party wall may be notifiable.
Removing a Chimney Stack
Partial or full removal of a chimney stack requires a notice, including work exposing the wall and roof structure.
When Do You Need a Party Wall Notice?
Works on a Party Wall
Direct alterations require notice at least 2 months before starting.
Works on a Party Fence Wall
Notice is needed 2 months prior if the fence is a masonry Party Fence Wall shared between two owners. Timber or pre-cast concrete fences are not covered.
Works on a Party Structure
Works on shared floors, ceilings, or structural elements linking flats/maisonettes require notice 2 months before work.
Excavations Within 3 Metres
Notice is required 1 month before starting if digging below the neighbour’s foundation level within 3 metres.
Excavations Within 6 Metres
Notice is required 1 month before starting for deep excavations near a neighbouring structure within 6 metres, where a 45-degree angle intersects (common for piled foundations or deep basements).
At Simple Survey, we provide expert guidance for all Party Wall procedures, Notices, and Awards to ensure your works comply with the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 while protecting your property and your neighbour’s property.
📩 Contact us today to speak with one of our surveyors and get your Party Wall process started quickly, accurately, and affordably.