If you’re planning works close to a shared boundary, the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 requires that you serve a valid Party Wall Notice. But what does a valid notice include—and why is it so important?
Essential Elements of a Valid Party Wall Notice
For a notice to comply with the Act, it should contain:
- The names and addresses of both the Building Owner (you) and the Adjoining Owner (your neighbour)
- Details of the property where the works will take place
- A clear description of the proposed works, including any structural changes or excavation
- The intended start date for the works
- The date of service and the signature of either the Building Owner or their authorised representative
- Drawings or plans if structural alterations or excavations are proposed
- Proper service method (hand-delivery, post, or another method permitted under the Act)
Why Getting It Right Matters
If a notice is invalid:
- The process may need to be restarted from the beginning
- Your project could face costly delays
- Disputes with neighbours may become more complicated
Serving a valid notice ensures your project stays compliant and minimises the risk of unnecessary conflict.
Why Appoint a Party Wall Surveyor?
While it’s possible for homeowners to prepare notices themselves, errors are very common. An invalid notice can cause frustrating setbacks. By appointing a qualified surveyor, you can be confident that:
- Notices are prepared correctly and served on time
- The process runs smoothly from the outset
- Compliance with the Party Wall Act is maintained throughout
At Simple Survey, our team prepares and serves notices on your behalf—saving you time, effort, and the risk of mistakes.
Common Questions About Notices
How much notice must I give?
- Two months for works to an existing party wall or shared structure
- One month for new boundary walls or excavation near a neighbour’s foundations
What if my notice is invalid?
- You’ll need to re-serve it, which can delay the start of your project
What if my neighbour ignores the notice?
- If there is no response within 14 days, this is treated as a “dissent,” meaning surveyors must be appointed and the Party Wall process formally begins
📩 Need help serving a valid Party Wall Notice? Contact team@simplesurvey.co.uk, England and Wales’ most cost effective Party Wall Surveying team with Party Wall Notice fees from £25.00 and Party Wall Award fees capped at £325.00. We will not be beaten on price!