If you have never dealt with party wall matters, the easiest way to understand the Act is this: it usually appears in domestic projects in three main areas.
The three common triggers and their sections
1) Building at the boundary — Section 1
New wall at the line of junction or up to it.
2) Working on a shared wall/structure — Section 2 (notice under Section 3)
Cutting into, altering, raising, reducing, or otherwise carrying out works to a party wall/party structure.
3) Excavating near a neighbour’s building — Section 6
Certain excavations for foundations and deeper works near adjoining structures.
The Party Wall process (Notice → Response → Award)
Notice
- Section 1 and Section 6 notices are typically 1 month before works
- Section 2 works notified under Section 3 are typically 2 months before works
Response (14 days)
Neighbour consents or dissents (or does not respond).
Award if required (Section 10)
Where there is no written consent, the dispute procedure under Section 10 applies and an Award may be made.
A practical rule that keeps costs down
Do the trigger check before you commit to a fixed contractor start date. The most expensive situations arise when party wall timing is discovered after the programme is already locked.
Get Cost Saving Pro Advice Now
If you are unsure whether your works fall under Section 1, 2/3, or 6, contact Simple Survey for a clear, practical assessment.