If you’re planning building work near a shared wall or boundary, getting consent to your Party Wall Notice can be the difference between starting on time and facing frustrating delays. While the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 sets out a clear legal process, how you handle consent in practice often determines how smoothly things move forward.
This guide explains what consent really means, how to improve your chances of receiving it, and what to do if consent isn’t given.
What Does Party Wall Consent Actually Mean?
Consent occurs when your neighbour replies in writing to confirm they are happy for the proposed works to proceed without the formal dispute process under the Act.
It does not mean:
- They are giving up their legal rights
- You can ignore the Act
- You can change the works later without notice
It simply means they are content for the works described in the notice to go ahead as proposed.
Why Consent Matters
When consent is given:
- You avoid the dispute process
- Surveyors do not need to be formally appointed
- There is no Party Wall Award required
- Your project can move forward faster
While consent is not guaranteed—or required for works to proceed—it is often the most time-efficient outcome for straightforward projects.
How to Improve Your Chances of Getting Consent
1. Talk Before You Serve the Notice
Although not a legal requirement, a brief conversation before serving a formal notice often makes a big difference.
Letting your neighbour know:
- What you plan to do
- When you plan to start
- That a formal notice will follow
helps prevent surprises and reduces suspicion.
2. Make Sure the Notice Is Clear and Accurate
Unclear or incorrect notices are a common reason neighbours withhold consent.
A well-prepared notice should:
- Clearly describe the proposed works
- Use plain language where possible
- Include realistic start dates
- Avoid unnecessary technical jargon
If a neighbour does not understand what you’re proposing, they are far more likely to dissent.
3. Stick to the Works Described
Neighbours are more comfortable consenting when they know the scope of work is fixed.
If you later plan to:
- Change the design
- Increase the extent of works
- Alter construction methods
you may need to serve a new notice. Being upfront from the start builds trust.
4. Be Available for Questions
Neighbours often have simple concerns about:
- Timing
- Noise
- Access
Being approachable and willing to answer questions can turn uncertainty into consent.
Silence or vague answers often lead to dissent—not because of opposition, but because of caution.
What If My Neighbour Doesn’t Respond?
If your neighbour does not reply within 14 days:
- The law treats this as a dissent
- The process moves forward formally
- Surveyors must be appointed
This does not mean your project is blocked—it simply means the statutory process applies.
What If My Neighbour Refuses Consent?
Refusal does not stop lawful works under the Act.
It means:
- Surveyors are appointed
- An agreement is produced under the Act
- Works proceed once that process is complete
In many cases, projects still move forward with only modest delays.
Common Mistakes That Reduce Consent Rates
- Serving notices without warning
- Using generic or incorrect templates
- Providing vague descriptions of works
- Rushing neighbours for a response
- Assuming silence means agreement
Avoiding these mistakes significantly improves outcomes.
Do I Need a Surveyor to Get Consent?
You can serve a notice yourself, but professionally prepared notices:
- Reduce confusion
- Improve clarity
- Lower the risk of dissent caused by technical errors
Many neighbours are more comfortable responding to a notice that has clearly been prepared correctly.
Final Thought
Getting Party Wall consent isn’t about pressure—it’s about clarity, timing, and communication. When neighbours understand what’s happening and feel informed, consent is far more likely.
Even when consent isn’t achieved, following the correct process ensures your project stays legal and on track.
Need Help Serving a Party Wall Notice?
Simple Survey prepares and serves compliant Party Wall Notices across England and Wales, helping projects move forward with confidence.
📧 team@simplesurvey.co.uk