Articles

If you think that ignoring a Party Wall Notice will prevent your neighbour from proceeding with their planned works, unfortunately, you're mistaken. The Party Wall Notice you receive gives you 14 days to respond. If you don’t respond within that time frame, you’ll...

A Party Wall Agreement (or Party Wall Award) is a legally binding document that outlines the terms and conditions of any proposed building works affecting a shared boundary or party wall between neighbouring properties. This agreement ensures that both you and your...

If you're a building owner planning work that falls under the Party Wall etc. Act 1996, it's vital that your notices are accurate, clear, and compliant with the Act. There are three main types of notices, and each has specific requirements. Failing to provide the...

Whether you’re planning a rear extension, a loft conversion, or structural alterations near a boundary, the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 may apply to your project. It is essential legislation for homeowners in England and Wales undertaking works that could impact...

The Party Wall etc. Act 1996 defines a party wall in Section 20. There are two main types of party walls, described in subsections (a) and (b). Type A Party Wall — Walls Straddling the Boundary Section 20(a) defines a party wall as: “a wall which forms part of a...

If you’re planning construction or renovation work near a shared (party) wall, a Party Wall Award isn’t just a box to tick – it’s a legal safeguard for everyone involved. Whether you're the one doing the building or the neighbour affected by it, this formal agreement...

A Party Wall Notice is simply a formal letter informing your neighbour (or neighbours) of the construction work you plan to carry out. In response, your neighbour will have several options to choose from, typically laid out on the notice. Most surveyors use the same...

When your building project affects a shared (party) wall, having a Party Wall Surveyor on board is more than just good practice – it’s often a legal requirement. These professionals play a vital role in protecting everyone’s interests, keeping works compliant with the...

The short answer is no, you don’t need planning permission to initiate the Party Wall process. However, if you’re planning to move forward with construction work, you will ultimately require planning permission before proceeding. It may sound confusing, but here’s how...

Whether you're planning a rear extension, digging new foundations, or simply altering a wall shared with a neighbour, the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 might apply to your project — and it's essential you comply to avoid delays, legal risks, or disputes. At Simple Survey,...

At Simple Survey, we regularly receive enquiries from concerned property owners whose neighbours have begun construction without serving the required notice under the Party Wall etc. Act 1996. If this has happened to you, you must act quickly. Waiting too...

A Party Wall Award—often referred to as a Party Wall Agreement—is a legally binding document under the Party Wall etc. Act 1996. It sets out the rights and responsibilities of neighbouring property owners when building works affect a shared wall, boundary, or...

Under Section 12 of the Party Wall etc. Act 1996, the adjoining owner can request that security be provided before any notifiable works commence. This security is intended to protect the adjoining owner against risks arising from the works. How Is Security Requested?...

The Party Wall etc. Act 1996 is a key piece of legislation in England and Wales, created to prevent disputes between neighbours over construction work. Its main goal is to ensure a fair and transparent process for resolving any issues that may arise during building...

Planning a home improvement project that involves a shared wall or structure? If so, you may need to issue a Party Wall Notice before any work begins. The Party Wall etc. Act 1996 is a legal framework designed to prevent and resolve disputes between neighbours when...

There’s often confusion about party fences and whether they fall under the Party Wall etc. Act 1996. Here’s what you need to know: Wooden Fences and Concrete Posts Are NOT Party Fence Walls Under the Act The Party Wall etc. Act 1996 defines a party fence wall as a...

If you're planning to carry out building work near a shared boundary or have received a Party Wall Notice, you may be wondering what your rights and responsibilities are. That’s where the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 comes in—a key piece of legislation that applies to...

Before you get stuck into that loft conversion or home extension, make sure you're legally covered. If your project affects a shared wall, boundary, or structure between properties, you may need a Party Wall Agreement under the Party Wall etc. Act 1996. This...

Once served, you have 14 days to respond. Here are your three main options: ✅ Consent to the Works You can choose to give your consent. But beware – by doing this, you’ll also take on liability for any damage to your property. 🔍 Dissent – Use the Same Surveyor You may...

If you’re planning building works that may impact a neighbour’s property, the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 could apply — and ignoring it can lead to costly delays. When Does the Act Apply? The Act is designed to manage disputes between neighbours when proposed building...

While often associated with residential extensions or loft conversions, party wall matters are just as critical in commercial settings – especially when it comes to construction, renovation, or redevelopment. From retail complexes to office buildings and industrial...

Before you even think about serving a Party Wall Notice, we strongly recommend having a chat with your neighbour (or neighbours) first. It’s a simple yet effective way to get the conversation started and ensure your building project goes smoothly from the outset. Why...

When you’re embarking on property renovations or building work near a shared boundary, you might come across the term “Party Wall Surveyor.” But what exactly does this professional do, and why is their role so crucial? Here’s everything you need to know about how a...

When your neighbour undertakes construction work, it’s possible for damage to occur to your property. Typically, this damage happens unintentionally by the builder or contractor and is of no benefit to your neighbour, as they’ll ultimately need to resolve the issue....

Planning building works that affect a shared wall or boundary? Or perhaps you've received a Party Wall Notice and aren’t sure how to respond? Whether you're a Building Owner or Adjoining Owner, understanding your rights under the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 is essential...

The Party Wall Act 1996 covers a variety of construction-related activities, which are grouped into three distinct categories. Each category outlines different works that may require your neighbour's consent, and some may involve specific procedures under the Act....

Maintaining shared (party) walls isn’t just about good upkeep – it’s about protecting your home, staying legally compliant, and keeping neighbourly relations on solid ground. Here’s how to stay on top of your party wall responsibilities. 🔍 Carry Out Regular...

Receiving a Party Wall Notice can feel daunting, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the legal process. It means your neighbour intends to carry out construction works that may affect a shared wall or boundary—and your response plays a vital role in protecting your...

If you’re dealing with building works near a shared boundary or have received a Party Wall Notice, understanding the terminology is essential. Here’s a helpful glossary of commonly used terms under the Party Wall etc. Act 1996: Party Wall A wall or structure shared by...

If your neighbour is planning works that involve a shared wall, a boundary line, or any nearby excavation, they’re legally required to notify you under the Party Wall etc. Act 1996. As an Adjoining Owner, you have specific rights and protections under the law — and...

If you’ve received or are serving a Party Wall Notice, you’ll need a qualified surveyor to guide the process. One effective option—often overlooked—is appointing an Agreed Surveyor: a single professional who acts fairly and independently for both parties under the...

Building or renovating near a shared boundary? Staying on good terms with your neighbour is key. Here are five practical tips to help you avoid disputes under the Party Wall Act: 1. Communicate Early and Openly Talk to your neighbour before starting work. Sharing your...

When it comes to property renovations or building works near shared boundaries, the term "adjoining owner" often comes up. But what does it really mean, and what does it mean for you if you’ve received a party wall notice? Here’s a breakdown of what being an adjoining...

Serving a Party Wall Notice is a crucial step when carrying out work near a shared boundary, but to make sure your notice is valid, you must include specific information. If even one key detail is missing, the notice could be deemed invalid, and you’ll be forced to...

Under Section 10(1) of the Party Wall etc. Act 1996, when a dispute arises after a party wall notice is served, the Act provides two options for appointing surveyors: Option (a): Both parties agree on appointing a single surveyor, known as the agreed surveyor. Option...

Unsure about how the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 works and what steps you should take? To clarify, here’s a straightforward guide on the key procedures. What Is the Party Wall Act? The Party Wall etc. Act 1996 provides a legal framework for preventing and resolving...

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...