The Party Wall etc. Act 1996 is UK legislation designed to manage and prevent disputes between neighbours when construction work affects shared or adjoining walls, boundary lines, or nearby structures.
It applies to England and Wales, while Scotland and Northern Ireland have their own equivalent legislation.
The Act ensures that building owners can carry out essential works while protecting the rights of adjoining owners. It sets out clear procedures, responsibilities, and dispute-resolution mechanisms so projects can move forward smoothly and fairly.
What Types of Work Does the Party Wall Act Cover?
The Act mainly applies to three categories of building work:
Excavation near a party wall – Digging for new foundations or basement works within certain distances of a neighbouring structure.
Building a new party wall – Constructing a wall on or adjacent to the boundary line between two properties.
Cutting into or altering an existing party wall – For example, inserting beams for a loft conversion, removing a chimney breast, or making other structural modifications.
If your project involves notifiable works under the Act, you must:
- Serve a Party Wall Notice – The building owner must notify all affected adjoining owners in writing, providing details of the planned works.
- Allow time for a response – Adjoining owners have 14 days to either:
- Consent to the works,
- Dissent and appoint their own surveyor, or
- Agree to use a single impartial surveyor (the “Agreed Surveyor”).
- Appoint surveyors if there’s a dispute – Party Wall Surveyors act impartially to protect both parties’ interests and, if needed, issue a Party Wall Award (a legally binding document setting out how the works should proceed and how potential damage will be dealt with).
Why the Act Matters
- ✅ Protects adjoining owners – Ensures property owners aren’t left with damage or disruption without legal recourse.
- ✅ Supports building owners – Provides a clear framework to avoid unnecessary delays and disputes.
- ✅ Maintains good neighbourly relations – With clear communication and professional oversight.
How We Can Help
At Simple Survey, our RICS-qualified team provides:
- Free, impartial advice on whether your project is covered by the Act.
- Drafting and serving Party Wall Notices correctly.
- Acting as surveyors to resolve disputes fairly and issue Party Wall Awards.
📧 Send us your drawings via email or call us today for a free consultation.
We proudly serve Greater London and surrounding areas with clear, fixed-fee pricing.
Take the Right Next Step
📧 Email team@simplesurvey.co.uk today for free, impartial advice. At Simple Survey, we’re the UK’s most affordable Party Wall Surveyors, offering trusted guidance across London and Greater London.