A Party Wall Agreement—commonly also known as a Party Wall Award—is the legal document prepared under the Party Wall etc. Act 1996. It is drawn up either by two surveyors (one representing each owner) or by a single impartial Agreed Surveyor acting for both parties.
The Agreement sets out how notifiable building works will be carried out, ensuring that both the Building Owner (the one undertaking works) and the Adjoining Owner (the neighbour affected) are protected.
What Does a Party Wall Agreement Include?
A typical Party Wall Award contains three main elements:
- The Award itself – a legally binding set of rules and conditions governing how the works must proceed, tailored to the specific project.
- Drawings – showing the proposed works and how they affect the party wall, boundary, or neighbouring structures.
Other Key Provisions
In addition to the above, a Party Wall Agreement will usually cover:
- Description of the proposed works
- Agreed working hours (typically 8am–6:00pm on weekdays for residential projects)
- Confirmation of the contractor’s public liability insurance
- Indemnities from the Building Owner in favour of the Adjoining Owner
- Arrangements for surveyor access during and after the works
- A time limit for commencing works (usually 12 months)
- Surveyors’ fees and payment responsibilities
Once agreed, the Award is signed, published, and issued to both parties. A copy is also provided for the Building Owner’s contractor so they are aware of the requirements.
Can Neighbours Simply Consent?
Yes. If the Adjoining Owner receives a valid Party Wall Notice and chooses to consent, the process can be far simpler.
Why a Party Wall Agreement Matters
A Party Wall Award is designed to prevent disputes before they arise. It provides clarity, protects adjoining properties, and ensures works are carried out fairly and legally.
FAQS
Q1. What is a party wall award?
A party wall award is a legally binding document prepared by appointed surveyors that sets out how qualifying work should be carried out under the Party Wall Act.
Q2. When is a party wall award required?
A party wall award is generally required when an adjoining owner dissents to a notice or does not respond within the statutory timeframe.
Q3. What information is included in a party wall award?
An award typically includes details of the proposed work, a schedule of condition, access rights, working hours, and responsibilities of each party.
Q4. Who prepares a party wall award?
The award is prepared by the appointed party wall surveyor or surveyors in accordance with the Party Wall etc. Act 1996.
Q5. Is a party wall award legally binding?
Yes. Once issued, a party wall award is legally binding on both the building owner and the adjoining owner unless successfully appealed.
Get Expert Help Today
At Simple Survey, we can prepare and serve the correct Party Wall Notices and guide you through the process to secure a valid Party Wall Agreement. With our fixed, low-cost fees, we’re the UK’s cheapest party wall surveyors—helping you save time, money, and stress.
📩 Email team@simplesurvey.co.uk today for free advice or a no-obligation review of your project.