Under the Party Wall etc. Act 1996, anyone carrying out building work that may affect a neighbour’s property is considered a Building Owner.
As a Building Owner, you are legally required to inform neighbouring property owners about certain types of work before you begin. A Party Wall Notice must be served when your project involves:
- Excavations within 3–6 metres of a neighbour’s property
- Altering or cutting into a shared party wall
- Removing a chimney breast
- Changing the height of a party wall
Informing Neighbours Before Work Starts
Before construction begins, you must provide neighbours with notice of any work covered by the Act. After receiving the notice, neighbours have three options:
- Consent to the work – the project can go ahead without a Party Wall Award.
- Dissent and appoint a surveyor – if a neighbour objects, both parties appoint surveyors and a Party Wall Award is prepared to define the work, responsibilities, and costs.
- Dissent and appoint an Agreed Surveyor – both parties may agree to use a single neutral surveyor to handle the Award process.
The Party Wall Award sets out how work will be carried out safely, including any protective measures such as temporary supports for foundations, to comply with the Act.
Minimising Costs and Stress
Using a professional surveyor from Simple Survey helps projects run smoothly, avoids unnecessary conflict, and keeps costs down.
- Free Initial Advice – get guidance and a quote before you start.
- Appoint a Surveyor – once the quote is approved, your surveyor manages notices, inspections, and Awards.
- Let the Surveyor Handle Everything – they will coordinate the process, ensuring compliance with the Act while reducing delays.
Choosing the Right Party Wall Surveyor
Not all surveyors approach disputes fairly. By using an experienced Simple Survey surveyor, you benefit from:
- Neutral advice for all parties
- Clear explanation of rights and obligations
- Cost-effective solutions that prevent unnecessary delays or disputes
Which Type of Party Wall Notice Do I Serve?
| Notice Type | Applicable Work | Minimum Notice Period |
| Line of Junction (Section 1) | Building a new wall up to or on the boundary line (consent required if astride the boundary) | 1 month |
| Party Structure (Section 3) | Work on a shared wall, floor, ceiling, or other structure | 2 months |
| Notice of Adjacent Excavation (Section 6) | Digging within 3m of a neighbour’s foundations (or 6m for piled foundations) | 1 month |
What Happens After the Notice is Served?
Neighbours can respond in the following ways:
- Consent – work can proceed.
- Dissent and appoint a surveyor – each party appoints a surveyor, and a Party Wall Award is issued.
- Dissent and appoint an Agreed Surveyor – a single neutral surveyor handles the Award on behalf of both parties.
The Party Wall Award ensures that the work is carried out legally and safely, specifying timelines, protective measures, and responsibilities for costs or repairs.
Advantages of Using a Party Wall Surveyor
- Smooth Agreements – professional oversight encourages cooperation between neighbours.
- Safe Start – the Party Wall Award authorises your work while protecting both parties.
- Fewer Conflicts – impartial guidance reduces disputes and unexpected costs.
A Simple Survey surveyor ensures your project complies with the Act, safeguards your property, and keeps neighbours onside.