You must serve a Party Wall Notice if your planned building work falls under the Party Wall etc. Act 1996. Common situations include:
- Altering, cutting into, or building against a shared (party) wall.
- Making changes to a party structure or a shared boundary wall between gardens.
- Constructing a new wall on or directly beside the boundary line.
- Digging within 3 metres of a neighbour’s property if your excavation will be deeper than their foundations.
- Excavating within 6 metres if your works intersect with a 45° line drawn downwards from the base of their foundations.
What If I Don’t Serve Notice?
Skipping this step can make your project unlawful and expose you to:
- Expensive legal claims from neighbours.
- Project delays while disputes are resolved.
- Increased risk of liability if damage occurs.
Serving the correct notice ensures you comply with the law and that your contractor’s insurance will apply if problems arise.
What Does It Cost to Serve a Party Wall Notice?
The cost can vary depending on how the notice is prepared. You should consider both:
- The upfront cost
- Some free or low-cost templates are available online, but these often miss key details and may be ruled invalid.
- Having a qualified Party Wall Surveyor draft and serve the notice is the safest option. A surveyor will review your proposed works, prepare a valid notice, and serve it properly.
- The hidden cost of an invalid notice
- If a notice is invalid, disputes can escalate quickly, causing delays and additional fees.
- A properly prepared notice avoids these risks, making professional support the most cost-effective choice overall.
✅ Key takeaway: While DIY templates might look cheaper, a surveyor-prepared notice provides security, accuracy, and peace of mind if disputes arise.