Whether or not you require a Party Wall Award depends on the type of work you are planning and whether it affects a shared (party) wall, boundary line, or neighbouring structure.
When a Party Wall Award is required
You will usually need one if you are:
- Carrying out work directly on a shared wall (such as removing a chimney breast, cutting into the wall, or inserting steel beams).
- Constructing a new wall on or along a boundary line.
- Excavating close to a neighbour’s property (e.g., within 3 metres of their foundations, or deeper than their existing foundation depth).
When a Party Wall Award is not required
You generally do not need an award for:
- Minor works like plastering, chasing walls for wiring, or installing shelves.
- Projects that take place entirely within your own property and have no impact on a party wall or boundary.
How the Process Works
- Serve Notice – The building owner must serve a Party Wall Notice to any affected neighbours at least 2 months before the works are due to begin.
- Consent or Dissent – If the neighbour consents in writing, you can usually proceed without an Award. If they dissent (or do not respond within 14 days), surveyors must be appointed.
- Surveyor Appointment – Either a single surveyor can be jointly appointed, or each party may instruct their own surveyor.
- The Party Wall Award – The surveyor(s) will then prepare a legally binding document setting out how the work should proceed, protective measures, access rights, and procedures for dealing with potential damage.
✅ Not sure whether your works fall under the Act?
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