Articles

Who Is Liable for Damage? The building owner carrying out the works is generally liable for any damage caused to adjoining properties during construction. Protecting Against Liability Following the Party Wall Act procedures, including serving notices and obtaining...

Common Causes of Delays Delays can occur due to neighbours not responding to notices, disputes requiring surveyor involvement, or unexpected construction challenges. Importance of Serving Notices Early Serving Party Wall Notices well ahead of planned start dates helps...

What Is a Schedule of Condition? A Schedule of Condition is a detailed report documenting the current state of adjoining properties before construction work begins. It often includes photographs and written descriptions. Why Is It Important? This report provides...

Start Early with Open Communication Inform neighbours about your plans before serving formal notices. Honest and respectful communication builds trust and reduces misunderstandings. Provide Clear and Detailed Information Explain the scope, timing, and potential impact...

Who Is a Party Wall Surveyor? A party wall surveyor is a qualified professional appointed to manage disputes and oversee works under the Party Wall etc. Act 1996. Their role is impartial, acting fairly between building owners and neighbours. Key Responsibilities...

Why Effective Communication Helps Open and respectful communication with neighbours reduces the likelihood of disputes related to party wall work and fosters goodwill. Discussing Plans Before Serving Notice Before serving formal Party Wall Notices, talk to neighbours...

Why Excavations Near Boundaries Matter Excavations near neighbouring buildings carry risks such as subsidence or structural damage. The Party Wall etc. Act 1996 regulates excavation work within specific distances and depths to protect adjoining properties. When a...

Overview of Party Wall Surveying Costs Costs associated with party wall surveying vary depending on the complexity of the project, the type of work proposed, and whether disputes arise. Understanding the potential fees helps property owners budget accordingly. Who...

What Is a Party Wall Award? A Party Wall Award is a legally binding document prepared when there’s disagreement or concern about works affecting a party wall or boundary. It sets out how the work will proceed and protects the interests of all parties. Role of the...

Understanding When a Notice Is Needed A Party Wall Notice is a legal requirement under the Party Wall etc. Act 1996. It must be served before starting certain building works that affect shared walls or boundaries. Knowing when this notice is necessary is essential to...

Neighbour’s Right to Object When a Party Wall Notice is served, neighbours have the legal right to object to the proposed works within 14 days. This triggers a formal dispute process under the Act. Appointment of Party Wall Surveyors If objections arise, one or more...

What Is a Party Wall Notice? A Party Wall Notice is a formal written notification served to adjoining owners when planned work affects a party wall, boundary, or shared structure. It is the first legal step under the Party Wall etc. Act 1996. When Must You Serve a...

Situations Covered by the Act The Party Wall etc. Act 1996 applies in specific circumstances involving work on shared walls or near neighbours’ property. Common scenarios include: Building a new wall on the boundary line between two properties Altering, repairing, or...

Defining a Party Wall A party wall is a wall or structure that physically stands on the boundary line between two neighbouring properties and is shared by both owners. It plays an important role in separating properties and supporting structures. Common Examples of...

What Is the Party Wall etc. Act 1996? The Party Wall etc. Act 1996 is legislation designed to prevent and resolve disputes related to building work affecting shared walls and boundaries between properties. It provides a clear legal framework for neighbours to follow...