Planning building works that touch or come close to a shared wall or boundary? Then you might need a Party Wall Agreement – a legal safeguard that helps keep you on the right side of the law and your neighbours.
Whether it’s a loft conversion, extension, or even removing a chimney breast, Party Wall Agreements exist to protect both parties from damage, disruption and unnecessary disputes.
What Exactly is a Party Wall?
A party wall is any structure that sits directly on the boundary between two properties – like the dividing wall between terraced or semi-detached houses, or a boundary wall between two gardens.
If your project affects this kind of structure, your neighbour will understandably want reassurance that their property won’t be put at risk. That’s where the Party Wall Award (the formal name for a Party Wall Agreement) comes in.
It sets out what work is being done, how it will be done, and how any damage or disputes will be handled – giving both parties peace of mind.
When is a Party Wall Agreement Required?
You’ll usually need to serve notice and have an agreement in place if you plan to:
- Carry out work on shared walls between semi-detached or terraced houses
- Alter floors or ceilings shared between flats
- Build or modify garden boundary walls
- Excavate (dig) within 3–6 metres of your neighbour’s foundations
- Extend into a loft and cut into the party wall
- Insert a damp proof course
- Raise or thicken a party wall
- Build a second storey above a shared wall
- Build a new wall up to or off the party wall
- Remove chimney breasts
Minor works, like plastering or hanging shelves, generally don’t require a Party Wall Agreement.
What Should Be Included in the Agreement?
A well-prepared Party Wall Award will cover:
- Full addresses and contact details for all owners and surveyors
- A description of the planned works, including drawings
- Timelines and working hours
- Details of contractor insurance
- Access arrangements if your project requires entry onto a neighbour’s land
It ensures both parties understand exactly what’s happening, when, and what happens if something goes wrong.
Serving Party Wall Notices – The Legal Requirement
If your works fall under the Party Wall Act, you’ll need to serve written notice on your neighbour(s) before work begins. There are three types of notice, depending on your plans:
- Section 1 Notice – for building at or near the boundary
- Section 3 Notice – for altering a party wall (e.g. cutting into it, removing chimney breasts, raising the wall)
- Section 6 Notice – for excavations near neighbouring foundations
Your notice must include details of the work, the start date, and any access you might need to your neighbour’s property.
If your neighbour consents in writing, you can go ahead. If not – or they don’t respond within 14 days – a dispute is triggered, and you’ll need a Party Wall Surveyor to draw up an Award.
Do You Really Need a Surveyor?
If your neighbour consents immediately, a surveyor might not be needed. But if there’s any dispute – or even a hint of concern – it’s wise to appoint a qualified Party Wall Surveyor.
A surveyor will:
- Draft a legally binding Party Wall Award
- Conduct a condition survey of neighbouring properties
- Manage communications between parties
- Help prevent or resolve disputes fairly
- Ensure your legal duties are met at every step
Given the risk of costly problems, delays, or damaged relationships, hiring a professional is a smart move.
Avoid Stress. Get Expert Help.
Don’t leave things to chance or guesswork. Whether you’re planning works or have received a notice yourself, Simple Survey is here to help you navigate every step of the Party Wall process.
📧 Get in touch with our friendly expert team today at team@simplesurvey.co.uk
We’ll ensure your project stays on track – and your neighbours stay onside.