Articles

When it comes to property projects, Party Wall Agreements can be one of the most misunderstood aspects. From misconceptions about when you need one, to the belief that they’re just a hassle, we’re here to set the record straight. Here are the most common myths...

This is one of the most common questions we receive—and for good reason. Many homeowners assume they can step onto a neighbour’s land to carry out repairs or maintenance to their own property. But the reality is more complex. There are only four lawful ways to access...

Here's a practical summary of when you must serve notice—and when you don't. When You Must Serve a Party Wall Notice You are legally required to serve notice on your neighbour (the adjoining owner) if you plan to carry out any of the following types of work: 1....

The short answer is yes, but there are several important factors to consider. While it may seem like a cost-effective option, serving your own notices can often lead to costly mistakes and delays. Here’s why. The Cost of Serving Your Own Notices Surveyor’s Fees for...

If you’re planning construction or renovation near a shared boundary or wall in England or Wales, the Party Wall Act 1996 is a crucial piece of legislation you need to be aware of. Designed to prevent disputes between neighbours and protect property rights, the Act...

The Party Wall Act 1996 is a crucial piece of legislation that governs construction work near shared boundaries, protecting the interests of property owners. However, despite its long-standing presence, there are still many misconceptions about its application. We’re...

The Party Wall etc. Act 1996 is an essential piece of legislation in England and Wales that governs construction or renovation work involving shared or adjoining walls between properties. While the Act aims to prevent disputes, damage to party walls during building...

When it comes to construction work near property boundaries, clear communication and legal compliance are essential to avoid disputes. One key legal document in this process is the Line of Junction Notice. Primarily used under the Party Wall etc. Act 1996, this notice...

The Party Wall etc. Act 1996 has been in place for over 20 years, yet many building owners still find it confusing. As a result, Party Wall Surveyors are often appointed to ensure compliance with the Act’s requirements. The Party Wall Act governs work directly...

When undertaking building work that affects shared boundaries, few laws are as crucial as the Party Wall etc. Act 1996. This Act is particularly important when carrying out underpinning or structural repairs, as these works can significantly impact the stability and...

If you're planning construction or renovation works that may affect your property boundary, the Party Wall Act 1996 gives you specific rights to access your neighbour's land in certain circumstances. These rights ensure that necessary works, such as building,...

Party wall drawings are specialised architectural plans that illustrate the shared wall(s) between two neighbouring properties. These drawings are crucial whenever any building work impacts a party wall, ensuring the wall’s stability and the safety of both properties...

Whether you're renovating your home, building an extension, or carrying out structural work near a neighbouring property, the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 plays a vital role in ensuring all parties' rights are protected. A party wall survey is an essential part of this...

Key Takeaways: A party wall is a shared structure, typically built on the boundary line between two properties. Governed by the Party Wall Act 1996, understanding your rights and responsibilities helps avoid disputes and ensures a smooth building process. What is a...

When planning construction near a shared boundary, a Party Wall Notice must be served on the adjoining owner. This is necessary if you intend to build a new structure on or near the boundary, carry out repairs to a party wall, or excavate within 3 metres of your...

The Party Wall etc. Act 1996 regulates construction work on or near property boundaries, including excavation and foundation work close to neighbouring properties. This important legislation applies only in England and Wales—it does not extend to Scotland or Northern...

When embarking on building works that impact a shared wall, you’ll likely encounter the term Party Wall Award — but what does it really mean? Often confused with other terms like Party Wall Agreement or Party Wall Notice, these are distinct legal concepts. In this...

When you're planning home improvements near a shared boundary, you may need to serve a Party Wall Notice under the Party Wall Act 1996. This legal requirement notifies your neighbours about upcoming construction, ensuring they have a chance to raise any concerns. Yet,...

While obtaining planning permission and Building Regulations approval is essential for ensuring the safety and legality of your construction project, these permits don’t cover the "neighbourly" issues that often arise when working near shared or adjacent structures....

When carrying out home improvements near a shared boundary, it’s common to be required to appoint a Party Wall Surveyor under the Party Wall etc. Act 1996. However, it’s not unusual for homeowners to be surprised by the fact that their neighbour’s surveyor charges...

When a Building Owner plans to carry out construction work near or on a party wall, the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 comes into play. This piece of legislation is designed to protect both the Building Owner and the Adjoining Owner (neighbour) from the impact of such work....

If you’re planning any construction near a shared wall or boundary, you’ll need to understand the Party Wall Act 1996. Here’s how to ensure your Party Wall Notice is legally valid and what steps you must take to stay compliant. What is the Party Wall Act 1996? The...

Navigating the Party Wall Act 1996 requires a solid understanding of various procedures, not least of which is the fee structure for party wall surveying. Whether you’re the Building Owner or Adjoining Owner, knowing who pays what, and what determines the costs, is...

If you're planning a home extension, building close to a neighbour’s property, or undertaking basement works, the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 is highly relevant. But what does the law actually allow you to do—and when can you lawfully exercise those rights? Whether...

Navigating construction works near party walls can be tricky—especially when it comes to compensation for the inconvenience and damage caused. If you’re a Building Owner or Adjoining Owner, it’s essential to understand the legal framework surrounding party wall...

Planning construction near a boundary or shared wall? You may need to hire a Party Wall Surveyor to ensure you comply with the Party Wall etc. Act 1996. Before you dive into the hiring process, it’s crucial to understand what a surveyor does and how to pick the right...

When it comes to expanding or reconfiguring your property, removing or modifying load-bearing walls can be an effective way to create more space. However, before you pick up a sledgehammer, it’s essential to fully understand the structural implications of such...

Terminating the services of a party wall surveyor can be tricky, but it's important to follow the correct procedures to protect your interests and avoid further disputes. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to manage this process smoothly. Step 1: Notify the Surveyor...

At Simple Survey, we understand that building projects can be stressful, and maintaining good relationships with your neighbours is just as important as safeguarding your property rights. The Party Wall Act is crucial legislation in England & Wales, regulating...

If you're planning construction work covered by the Party Wall etc. Act 1996, it’s crucial to understand your responsibilities as the building owner. One of your key duties is notifying your neighbours in writing before starting any work that may affect shared walls,...

A party wall is a wall shared by two or more property owners. The most common example is the dividing wall between two houses, but it can also include floors and ceilings in flats (known as party structures) or garden walls and boundary walls (referred to as party...

If you're planning a side extension, understanding the Line of Junction is crucial. This invisible boundary divides the lands of two adjoining properties and extends upwards, beyond just the ground level. If you’re constructing a new wall up to this line, but entirely...

When carrying out construction works that affect a party wall, it’s only fair to assume that any damage caused to your neighbour’s property should be your responsibility to fix. After all, you’re the one who initiated the works. However, the Party Wall Act 1996...

If you're planning construction or alterations near your neighbour's property, it’s essential to understand when and how you need to notify them under the Party Wall etc. Act 1996. Here’s a guide to help you navigate the legal requirements for notifying your adjoining...

If your neighbour has begun or completed construction works that affect the party wall without serving the proper Party Wall Notice, it can create a significant headache. The Party Wall Act 1996 is there to protect both property owners when works could potentially...

When embarking on a construction project—whether it’s a loft conversion, basement dig, or house extension—many homeowners focus on design and budget, but they often overlook an essential aspect: party wall matters. These issues, governed by the Party Wall etc. Act...

When planning construction or renovation work near a shared boundary or party wall, serving a valid Party Wall Notice is a critical step. This document ensures compliance with the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 and protects the rights of everyone involved. In this detailed...

Embarking on a property renovation, such as an extension or loft conversion, is an exciting venture, but it comes with a host of responsibilities. Among the paperwork and permissions you'll need to sort through, one key document you may hear about is a Party Wall...

If you’re planning construction work that affects shared boundaries or your neighbour’s property, the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 is likely to come into play. A key but sometimes misunderstood aspect of the Act is the Right of Entry—the legal ability for a building owner...

If you’re planning construction work on or near a Party Wall, you must serve a Party Wall Notice to your affected neighbours. This legal requirement, under the Party Wall etc. Act 1996, is essential for preventing disputes and avoiding costly litigation down the line....

When carrying out building work near a boundary, especially if it involves excavation, the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 is critical in protecting both the Building Owner and the Adjoining Owner. In particular, Section 6 of the Act governs the requirements when excavation...

Serving notices in properties with both freehold and leasehold ownership can be complex and requires careful attention to both legal and practical details. Whether you're dealing with repairs, maintenance, or alterations, here’s a streamlined approach to manage the...

Receiving a Party Wall Notice means that your neighbour plans building works or excavations that may affect a shared or adjoining boundary. This could include anything from an extension to a new fence, or even digging close to the boundary line. Under the Party Wall...

If you’re planning to extend your property and need to excavate foundations, you may be required to serve an Adjacent Excavation Notice to your neighbour. Under Section 6 of the Party Wall Act 1996, this is a necessary step if your excavation work meets certain...

Planning to dig foundations for an extension or install new drainage? Even if the work is on your own land, it could still impact your neighbour’s property — and that’s where the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 comes into play. Why It Matters Excavating near another building...

Navigating the party wall process can be stressful, but handling it in a courteous and thoughtful way can prevent many disputes under Section 10 of the Party Wall Act. If more people followed these simple tips, there would likely be fewer conflicts, and neighbourly...

When planning construction or renovation work—particularly on or near shared walls or boundaries—the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 often comes into play. Choosing the right surveyor is a crucial part of complying with this legislation. In some cases, appointing an agreed...

The Party Wall Act 1996 is a crucial piece of UK legislation designed to regulate construction work involving shared walls, boundary lines, and excavations near neighbouring properties. Whether you’re a homeowner, developer, or neighbour, understanding the Act is...

If your neighbours are undertaking building work near your property, you may be wondering whether a party wall surveyor can regulate the hours during which noisy work is allowed. The answer is both yes and no—depending on the nature of the works involved and whether...

When homeowners consider expanding into their lofts, it often makes more sense financially and practically than moving to a larger property. However, it’s essential to understand the potential risks of damage to party walls and neighbouring properties during such...