Articles

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...

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...