A Party Wall Notice is a formal document you serve on any neighbour who shares a wall, structure, or boundary with your property. It sets out exactly what work you plan to carry out to that shared element — from cutting into a wall to excavation near their foundations.
Many Building Owners wait until planning permission is granted before serving a Party Wall Notice. While that might feel logical, it can backfire — delaying your project and straining neighbour relations.
When Should You Serve a Party Wall Notice?
It depends on the type of works:
1. Building on the Line of Junction (Boundary Line)
Section 1 of the Act covers building right on the boundary between two properties. You must serve notice at least one month before starting these works.
2. Works to an Existing Party Structure
Section 2 applies if you’re altering a party wall, floor, or other shared structure. This includes flats where floors and ceilings are party structures. You must give two months’ notice before starting.
3. Adjacent Excavation (Within 3m–6m)
Section 6 kicks in when you plan to dig within 3–6 metres of a neighbour’s structure and below their foundations. You must give one month’s notice.
Can You Serve Notice After Starting Works?
Only if the works you’ve started aren’t covered by the Act. If you’ve already begun excavation or alterations to a party wall, it’s too late for a valid notice. But if you’ve only started unrelated works — say demolition — you may still serve notice for the relevant upcoming works.
When in doubt, get professional advice before picking up the hammer.
What Must a Party Wall Notice Contain?
A valid notice should include:
- Full names and addresses of all Building Owners
- Their signatures or those of their appointed surveyor
- Date of service
- Clear description of the proposed works
- Intended start date
- Relevant drawings — e.g. foundation details for Section 3, excavation depth and site plans for Section 6
An incomplete or incorrect notice will be invalid, forcing you to start the process again — pushing your project back and increasing costs.
Risks of Not Serving Notice
Without a valid Party Wall Notice, you lose the legal protection of the Act. If a neighbour claims you’ve caused damage — even if you haven’t — it could be your word against theirs, and you may be ordered to pay for repairs.
Serve an incorrect notice, and you’ll have to restart the clock. That’s why getting it right first time is vital.
📩 Avoid costly delays and disputes — let us handle your Party Wall Notice from start to finish. Email team@simplesurvey.co.uk for expert help today.