If you are planning construction work that affects a shared wall, boundary, or structure, the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 requires you to notify your neighbour in writing. This formal notification is known as a Party Wall Notice, and it helps prevent disputes and ensures compliance with the law. While some property owners choose to hire a surveyor, it is possible to complete a Party Wall Notice yourself, provided you follow the legal requirements carefully.
This guide explains how to create a DIY Party Wall Notice, step by step, and outlines key considerations to ensure it is valid and effective.
1. Understand When a Party Wall Notice Is Required
Before preparing a notice, determine whether your planned works fall under the Party Wall Act. Typical situations include:
- Building a new wall on the boundary line with a neighbouring property.
- Cutting into or removing parts of a shared wall (party wall).
- Excavating near a neighbouring building that could affect foundations.
If your works involve any of these scenarios, you must serve a Party Wall Notice before starting work.
2. Identify the Type of Notice You Need
There are three main types of Party Wall Notice:
- Line of Junction Notice – For building a new wall on the boundary line.
- Party Structure Notice – For works affecting a shared wall or structure.
- Notice of Excavation – For excavating near a neighbouring property that could affect its foundations.
Ensure you select the correct notice type, as the content and legal requirements differ slightly.
3. Include Essential Information in Your Notice
A valid DIY Party Wall Notice must include the following information:
- Your details: Name, address, and contact information of the building owner.
- Neighbour’s details: Name and address of the adjoining owner.
- Description of the works: Clearly explain the planned construction, including methods, materials, and approximate timelines.
- Location of the works: Specify which wall, boundary, or structure will be affected.
- Start date: Provide the proposed start date for the works.
- Right to appoint a surveyor: Explain that the neighbour can consent, consent with conditions, or dissent and appoint a surveyor.
- Signature and date: Ensure the notice is signed and dated.
4. Deliver the Notice Correctly
Under the Party Wall Act, the notice must be served in a way that proves receipt. Acceptable methods include:
- Hand delivery to the neighbour.
- Recorded or special delivery post.
- Leaving the notice at the neighbour’s address and obtaining proof of receipt.
Important: The neighbour has 14 days to respond after receiving the notice. If they do not respond, the law assumes consent.
5. Outline the Possible Responses
It is useful to clearly explain the neighbour’s options in your notice:
- Consent: Agreeing to the works without conditions.
- Dissent: Disagreeing with the works, which will trigger the appointment of surveyors to produce a Party Wall Award.
Providing this information helps avoid confusion and demonstrates compliance with the Act.
6. Keep Copies for Your Records
Always keep a copy of the notice for your own records, along with proof of delivery. This protects you in case of disputes and provides evidence that you complied with the Party Wall Act.
7. Optional: Attach Supporting Documents
Although not legally required, including drawings, plans, or photographs of the property can help the neighbour understand the proposed works and may reduce the likelihood of disputes.
8. Seek Professional Advice If Needed
While a DIY Party Wall Notice is legal, complex projects or potentially contentious works may still benefit from professional advice. A qualified Party Wall Surveyor can ensure:
- Your notice is legally compliant.
- Risks to both properties are adequately addressed.
- Any disputes are handled efficiently.
Conclusion
Completing a DIY Party Wall Notice is achievable with careful attention to detail. By including all required information, delivering the notice correctly, and clearly explaining the neighbour’s options, you can comply with the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 and reduce the risk of disputes.
Remember: proper preparation, clear communication, and thorough documentation are the keys to a smooth party wall process—whether you handle it yourself or engage a surveyor.