The Party Wall etc. Act 1996 governs building activity that could affect a shared wall, boundary, or nearby foundations. Where works are notifiable, your neighbour (the building owner) must serve a Party Wall Notice before work begins—at least 1 month for most matters and 2 months for party-structure works.
What a Valid Party Wall Notice Must Include
- A clear description of the proposed works and the intended start date
- Names and addresses of both the building owner and the adjoining owner(s)
- Plans/sections where required—for Section 6 excavations these are mandatory
- An explicit reference to the relevant section(s) of the Act
How You Can Respond
You have 14 days from receipt to reply:
- Consent in writing, or
- Dissent and either appoint your own surveyor or agree to a single Agreed Surveyor.
No reply within 14 days = a deemed dispute, allowing the building owner to initiate the Act’s dispute-resolution process.
The Party Wall Award (Agreement)
Following review and any inspections, the surveyor(s) issue a Party Wall Award, which typically sets out:
- Authorised works and the time/manner of execution
- Access arrangements
- Protective measures and damage procedures
- Any Security for Expenses (if applicable)
Which Works Are Notifiable?
Section 1 — New Walls at the Boundary (Line of Junction)
- Building up to the boundary on your neighbour’s land requires notice.
- Building astride the boundary (half on each side) needs your written consent.
- Notice period: 1 month.
Section 2 — Works to Party Structures (incl. Party Fence Walls)
Common examples:
- Cutting into a party wall (e.g., steel beams, DPCs)
- Cutting away projections (e.g., chimney breast removal)
- Raising, rebuilding, underpinning, or repairing a party wall
- Notice period: 2 months.
Section 6 — Adjacent Excavation
Excavation is notifiable when both apply:
- Within 3 metres (or 6 metres for deeper works such as piles), and
- Deeper than the bottom of your foundations.
- Plans/sections required.
- Notice period: 1 month.
Not Been Served a Notice?
If the works look notifiable and you’ve received no notice, speak to your neighbour and request a valid Party Wall Notice. Not all projects trigger the Act, so if you’re unsure, get expert advice.
Need clear, impartial guidance fast?
Email team@simplesurvey.co.uk. Simple Survey are the lowest-cost party wall surveyors across England & Wales—we’ll confirm if the works are notifiable, outline your options, and handle notices and awards efficiently.