Are you planning construction work that may fall under the Party Wall etc. Act 1996? Perhaps you’ve already received a Party Wall Notice from your neighbour and are unsure of your next steps. Whether you’re the Building Owner or the Adjoining Owner, having the right guidance at the outset can save time, money, and stress.
Here are the key questions you should ask a Party Wall Surveyor before appointing them:
1. What is the Party Wall Act 1996 and why does it matter?
The Act provides a legal framework to prevent disputes between neighbours when construction affects a shared wall, boundary, or nearby structure. It protects the rights of both property owners, ensuring building works can proceed while safeguarding adjoining properties.
2. When does the Act apply?
The Party Wall Act covers three main categories of work:
- Alterations to an existing party wall or shared structure
- Excavations within set distances of neighbouring properties
- Construction of new boundary walls
If your project falls into any of these categories, a Party Wall Notice will be required. A surveyor can advise on the correct process.
3. Can my neighbour’s builder access my property?
Yes – but only if absolutely necessary. The Act allows access for building works that cannot reasonably be completed otherwise. In such cases, the Building Owner must provide 14 days’ notice. Where alternative methods exist, those should always be used first.
4. Why should I appoint a Party Wall Surveyor?
A qualified surveyor provides impartial expertise to protect your interests by:
- Reducing the risk of disputes and false claims for damage
- Drafting legally binding Party Wall Awards to ensure works proceed fairly and safely
Final Thoughts
It’s always best to have an open conversation with your neighbour before serving a Party Wall Notice. This helps maintain good relations and reduces the likelihood of disputes. However, if disagreements arise, a Party Wall Surveyor will handle the process impartially and professionally.
📧 For expert, fixed-fee advice from the UK’s most affordable surveyors, contact team@simplesurvey.co.uk today.