Modern refurbishment projects often involve new ventilation systems, heating equipment, drainage pipes, ducts and flues.
Where these services need to pass through a wall shared with another property, homeowners sometimes assume the work is too small to involve the Party Wall Act.
That should not always be assumed.
The size of the project is not the only consideration
Party Wall legislation is concerned with particular types of work to shared structures.
The overall cost of the project does not determine whether the Act applies.
A small penetration through a wall may have very different implications from a significant structural opening.
Cutting into a party wall
Section 2 of the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 contains rights concerning certain works to party structures.
Where installation requires cutting significantly into a party wall, the proposal should be reviewed.
Our Section 2 Party Wall guide explains the relevant procedure in more detail.
Common examples
Services that may require openings through walls include:
- mechanical ventilation ducts;
- boiler flues;
- extract ducts;
- soil and waste pipes;
- heating pipework;
- air-conditioning services; and
- electrical containment.
Whether a Party Wall Notice is required depends on the precise works and status of the wall.
Fire and acoustic performance
In flats particularly, penetrating a separating wall or floor can affect more than structure.
Fire separation and acoustic performance may also need consideration.
Building Regulations and lease requirements are separate from the Party Wall process.
What if the wall belongs wholly to the neighbour?
Do not assume Party Wall rights automatically allow pipes or ducts to be installed through a wall entirely owned by someone else.
Ownership and the specific statutory rights need to be established.
Simple Survey can review the proposal
If your refurbishment requires new services through or into a shared wall, send us the construction details.
Simple Survey can advise whether the Party Wall Act is relevant before openings are formed.