Articles

If you’re planning construction work that could affect a shared wall, understanding the party wall notice procedure is crucial. Whether you’re a homeowner or developer, ensuring compliance with the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 is key to avoiding disputes and maintaining...

When you’re planning construction or renovation work that involves shared walls or boundaries, the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 is likely to come into play. One of the most crucial decisions you’ll make is choosing the right surveyor to handle the legal and technical...

Planning a home renovation is an exciting milestone, whether you're extending your kitchen, converting a loft, or excavating a basement. However, when your project involves shared walls or boundaries, there’s more to think about than just design. Legal compliance,...

If you've found a letter from your neighbour outlining work under the Party Wall etc. Act 1996, you're probably wondering what to do next. Whether you’re just trying to understand your rights or have concerns about the proposed work, it’s important to act wisely and...

Loft conversions are a popular way to maximise space in both residential and commercial properties, offering a cost-effective alternative to moving. However, before you start planning your dream loft, there are several structural and legal considerations you need to...

If you’ve recently appointed a party wall surveyor following the receipt or serving of a notice under the Party Wall etc. Act 1996, your surveyor should have explained the process of selecting a Third Surveyor. Unlike when a single Agreed Surveyor is jointly appointed...

This article explores how party wall surveyors play a key role in reducing disputes, maintaining neighbourly harmony, and ensuring compliance with the Party Wall etc. Act 1996. We aim to provide a balanced perspective. The profession has faced criticism, much of it...

When it comes to building work that affects a shared wall, the timing and legal process are crucial. Whether you're starting a major construction project or handling emergency repairs, understanding the party wall procedure is key to avoiding disputes with your...

Planning a renovation or extension that involves a shared boundary? Party wall matters are critical. Under the Party Wall etc. Act 1996, you must notify and possibly negotiate with your neighbours before you begin. This is where a reliable party wall surveyor becomes...

One of the more nuanced scenarios under the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 ("the Act") arises when a neighbouring property changes ownership after a Party Wall Award has been issued, but before the building works are complete. This raises a key question:Must the building...

As expert party wall surveyors we bring you the best advice on how to avoid costly conflicts. Here’s what we recommend: 1. Communicate Early and Clearly Explain your plans to your neighbours before sending out the notice. It helps avoid confusion.” 2. Get Expert...

Removing a chimney breast in your home can create much-needed extra space, but it’s not a job to undertake lightly. While the process can be straightforward, it involves both structural and legal considerations that must not be ignored. If you’re considering removing...

Constructing against a party wall—a structure shared with an adjoining property—demands both legal awareness and neighbourly sensitivity. Whether you are planning an extension, renovation, or new build, a clear understanding of your rights and obligations is essential...

If your neighbour is starting construction near your property, it’s essential to understand your rights under the Party Wall etc. Act 1996. This Act provides key protections for adjoining owners, ensuring you’re notified and consulted before any major building works...

Disputes concerning boundary lines and wall construction are among the most common challenges faced by homeowners—particularly in densely populated residential areas. Understanding the distinction between boundary walls and party fence walls is essential for avoiding...

Basements are becoming a sought-after way to maximise living space, especially in cities where property is scarce and costly. Whether you’re looking to convert an existing basement or build a new one, there are several considerations — both for the homeowner and the...

Undertaking building works near shared boundaries can either foster positive neighbourly relations—or create friction. One of the most common sources of conflict during home improvement projects is the party wall. Disputes often arise due to structural concerns,...

When undertaking construction or renovation works—particularly those affecting a party wall, boundary structure, or nearby foundations—you may find it necessary to access your neighbour’s property. This often prompts a vital legal query: “Am I permitted to enter my...

As a Building Owner planning construction that might affect a shared or boundary wall, it's important to understand your legal rights and responsibilities under the Party Wall etc. Act 1996. Here, we outline the essential points regarding your rights and obligations...

If you're a developer planning a construction project, you’re likely aware that the Party Wall Act plays an essential role when working close to boundaries or shared structures. Whether you’re extending, carrying out excavation works, or modifying a boundary wall,...

When clients come to us for help with projects affected by the Party Wall etc. Act 1996, one of the first concerns they raise is the potential cost. Party wall awards often feel like an additional expense with no clear benefit to the building owner. After all, they...

If you're planning to undertake building works that could impact a shared boundary or wall, serving Party Wall Notices is a critical part of the process. In this article, we provide an overview of Party Wall Notices and share key tips on how to serve them effectively....

When it comes to building works that might affect a party wall, it’s essential to understand the Party Wall Act 1996 and your rights as an Adjoining Owner. If you're unsure about how to proceed, especially when comparing surveyor quotes, this guide can help clarify...

The Party Wall etc. Act 1996 covers various types of work, including: Work on an existing party wall or party structureThis includes alterations to or modifications of a shared wall or structure, such as the insertion of beams or joists, or the removal of chimney...

If you find that your neighbour has started building work without serving a Party Wall Notice, it can be concerning, especially if you worry about potential damage to your property. It's important to understand your rights and responsibilities under the Party Wall...

The Party Wall etc. Act 1996 came into force on 1 July 1997 and applies throughout England and Wales. The Act does not apply to Scotland or Northern Ireland. The Act provides a legal framework for addressing or preventing disputes regarding party walls, party...

If you've served Party Wall Notices on your neighbour and they’ve dissented, appointing their own surveyor, a third surveyor will be chosen by the two appointed surveyors to resolve any deadlock. But what exactly does the third surveyor do? Here’s a breakdown of their...

The Party Wall etc. Act 1996 gives the Building Owner (the person carrying out the work) specific rights to perform certain types of work on a shared party wall that extend beyond common law rights. According to Section 2 of the Act, the most common types of work...

Imagine this: you’re ready to extend your home and have carefully followed all the necessary steps. You’ve engaged a party wall surveyor, prepared your notices, and served them to your neighbour. Everything’s been done by the book, but now you’re facing a...

When you’re dealing with party wall issues, things can quickly become complicated. The Party Wall Act is clear about who needs to do what, especially in the event of a dispute. If an adjoining owner dissents to the party wall notice, the building owner must appoint a...

notice to their neighbors under this important piece of legislation. However, the process can be a bit complex, leading many to still be uncertain about what notifiable works are, and when notices need to be issued. Following up on our recent video (and companion...

When you're carrying out building work on your property, you may encounter situations where you need to access areas that are usually off-limits, most commonly when erecting scaffolding on your neighbour’s land. Navigating this can often be confusing, especially in...

Let’s say your neighbour is undertaking construction work, and during the process, your property is damaged. Construction can be noisy, messy, and disruptive, so it’s not uncommon for accidents to occur. But the real question is: how do you determine who’s at fault,...

At Simple Survey, our expert team of chartered surveyors based in Southampton assists clients with Party Wall matters on a daily basis. In this article, we provide a brief overview of the Party Wall Act, explaining its purpose, how it applies when planning an...

If you're planning to carry out construction work that affects a shared boundary or wall with your neighbour, it’s essential to serve a Party Wall Notice. This is a legal requirement under the Party Wall etc. Act 1996. But how do you go about serving one, and what...

The concept of a "party wall" can be confusing for property owners, especially when it comes to understanding when and how the Party Wall Act 1996 applies. Both property owners and adjacent neighbours may have questions about what qualifies as a party wall and whether...

When planning building works near a boundary, Party Wall Notices are crucial but often overlooked. Serving them correctly and on time is vital to avoid delays, confusion, and unexpected costs. Many Building Owners leave it to the last minute, only to find themselves...

At Simple Survey, we frequently receive queries regarding which parties need to be served Party Wall Notices when a neighbouring property is split between a freeholder and one or more leaseholders. In this article, we clarify these roles and guide you through the...

What Is a Party Wall? A party wall is a wall that sits on the boundary line between two properties, either forming part of a building or serving as a dividing structure, such as a masonry garden wall (not including wooden fences or hedges). It can also be a wall...

As surveyors, we frequently receive inquiries from property owners asking, "I need a party wall agreement—can you help?" The short answer is yes, but let’s break things down a bit first. Surveyors are responsible for preparing what is officially known as a Party Wall...

Are you a neighbour concerned about potential damage from upcoming construction works, or a building owner planning a home renovation? Whether you’re starting a new project or responding to one, it’s natural to worry about the possibility of damage during...

Occasionally, we come across situations where someone is in the middle of party wall proceedings, and then a change in property ownership occurs. This can leave people confused about what steps to take, especially when the adjoining owner is selling their property...

When planning a construction project, understanding the costs involved is crucial—especially when it comes to the Party Wall process. Costs can quickly add up, and it's important to account for every part of the process, including the often-overlooked Party Wall...

The Act recognises two main types of party walls: Party Wall Type A A party wall is defined as a wall that straddles the boundary line between two (or more) properties. This type of wall can serve various purposes: It is part of a single building, or It separates two...

In this guide, we'll walk you through the steps of creating and delivering a legally compliant party wall notice, making sure you're clear about every stage of the process. What Are the Three Types of Party Wall Notices?Under the Party Wall etc. Act 1996, there are...

Receiving a Party Wall Notice can be a bit daunting, especially if you’ve never encountered one before. It's a common concern for neighbours when they’re notified about construction work happening next door, and it’s easy to get confused about what your rights are and...

When carrying out construction work near shared boundaries, a common concern is the possibility of damage to an adjoining property. The Party Wall etc. Act 1996 provides a mechanism to protect neighbouring property owners by allowing them to request security for...

What is a Party Wall?A party wall refers to a shared wall between two or more properties, typically aligned with the boundary line, though it can also include a wall located entirely on one property if it supports an adjacent structure. Additionally, a freestanding...

At Simple Survey, we often receive last-minute requests from building owners eager to start their construction works immediately, only to realise they haven't yet served a Party Wall Notice. In this article, we break down the typical timescales involved in securing a...

If you’re planning construction or excavation near a shared boundary, it’s crucial to get your Party Wall Notice right. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process of drafting and serving a valid Party Wall Notice, ensuring you stay compliant every step of the...