Planning a home improvement project that involves a shared wall or structure? If so, you may need to issue a Party Wall Notice before any work begins. The Party Wall etc. Act 1996 is a legal framework designed to prevent and resolve disputes between neighbours when building works could affect a party wall, boundary, or adjoining structure.
At Simple Survey, our experienced party wall surveyors can guide you through this often-confusing process, ensuring your project remains compliant and on schedule. If you’re unsure where to start, email us at team@simplesurvey.co.uk — we’re here to help.
When Is a Party Wall Notice Required?
If your building work falls into any of the following categories, the Party Wall Act likely applies:
- Section 1 Notice – for building along the boundary line (where no structure currently exists)
- Section 3 Notice – for alterations to an existing party wall or structure
- Section 6 Notice – for excavations within 3 metres of a neighbouring structure and deeper than its foundations
Notices must include precise details of the works — vague terms like “home extension” are not enough and may be considered invalid.
What Must a Party Wall Notice Contain?
To be legally valid, your notice should:
- Be in writing and clearly dated
- Include the full names and addresses of all Building Owners
- Be signed by the Building Owner or their authorised Party Wall Surveyor
- Clearly describe the proposed works and expected start date
- Be served on all affected Adjoining Owners (including leaseholders where relevant)
- Include plans or drawings (mandatory for Section 6, strongly recommended for Section 1 and 3)
Surveyors can prepare the notice, but only the Building Owner or their appointed representative can serve it.
How Can You Serve a Party Wall Notice?
There are four recognised methods under the Act:
1. By Hand
Delivering the notice in person to the Adjoining Owner (or “the Occupier” if the name is unknown). This method is personal and can help maintain good neighbourly relations. Do not post it through the letterbox if no one is home — it must be handed directly.
2. By Post
Send to the Adjoining Owner’s last known UK address (typically the one on the title deeds). Always get proof of posting or use recorded delivery for legal protection.
3. By Email
Only allowed if the Adjoining Owner has explicitly agreed to receive documents this way. Without prior consent, service by email may not be valid.
4. By Fixing to the Property
If the owner is unknown or the property is empty, address the notice to “The Owner” and attach it in a visible location on the building (e.g. front door or window). Be sure to take dated photos to document that the notice was properly served.
Avoiding Delays and Legal Pitfalls
Getting the notice right is crucial. Mistakes in wording, missing information, or serving it incorrectly can invalidate the notice — delaying your project and possibly leading to costly disputes.
That’s where we come in.
Let’s Make It Simple
At Simple Survey, we help homeowners and developers handle Party Wall Notices properly — no jargon, no stress. Whether you’re digging foundations, converting your loft, or building on the boundary, our experts ensure every step complies with the law.
📧 Get in touch today at team@simplesurvey.co.uk to speak with a specialist and keep your project moving forward with confidence.