If you’re considering a loft conversion, basement extension, conservatory, or any home improvements near a shared wall or boundary, there’s a good chance you’ll need a Party Wall Agreement before starting work.
Under the Party Wall etc. Act 1996, certain building activities that impact a shared wall or structure between properties require you to notify your neighbours—and in some cases, get their formal agreement—before construction begins.
🏗️ What Kind of Work Requires a Party Wall Agreement?
The Act applies to residential and commercial properties in England and Wales and covers three main types of work:
- Alterations to a party wall or structure (e.g. inserting beams for a loft conversion)
- Construction along the boundary line (e.g. building an extension or garden wall)
- Excavations within 3 or 6 metres of a neighbouring structure (e.g. foundations for a new build or basement)
These rules can apply to the wall between two semi-detached or terraced homes, a ceiling between flats, or even a garden wall on the boundary.
📩 Serving a Party Wall Notice
If your project involves any of the above, you (the Building Owner) are legally required to serve a written Party Wall Notice to any neighbours affected (the Adjoining Owners).
You must:
- Serve notice at least 2 months before starting building work on a shared wall or boundary
- Serve notice 3 months in advance for excavation works
The notice should clearly set out the scope of work, and you must give the Adjoining Owner 14 days to respond.
Top tip: Always speak with your neighbours informally before serving the notice. A friendly chat and a few sketches can go a long way to preventing disputes down the line.
📝 What Happens After the Notice?
There are three possible responses from your neighbours:
- ✅ They consent in writing
Great! You can proceed, ideally after agreeing on a Schedule of Condition (photos and notes on the wall’s current condition) to protect everyone involved. - ❌ They dissent
A Party Wall dispute is triggered, and a Party Wall Surveyor must be appointed to draw up a Party Wall Award—a legal document setting out how the work can proceed. - 🤷 No response within 14 days
This is treated as a dissent, and the dispute process begins.
⚠️ Remember: The Building Owner pays for all surveyor costs—including those of the Adjoining Owner—even if separate surveyors are appointed.
📜 The Role of the Party Wall Surveyor
A Party Wall Surveyor ensures that your project complies with the Act and that both parties are treated fairly. They’ll:
- Prepare and serve the Party Wall Award
- Resolve disputes professionally and impartially
It’s often more cost-effective to agree on a joint surveyor, but each side is entitled to appoint their own if preferred.
🤝 Maintaining Good Neighbour Relations
Let’s face it—home renovations can be stressful, and the last thing you want is neighbourly tension.
Here’s how to keep things friendly:
- Speak to your neighbours early—don’t let the Party Wall Notice be the first they hear of your plans
- Share drawings and timeframes so they feel informed
- Reassure them you’ll follow legal procedures and take care of their property
- Provide contact details for your surveyors and contractors for added peace of mind
A little transparency can go a long way in keeping your project smooth and stress-free.
📬 Need Party Wall Advice? We’re Here to Help
Whether you’re planning building works or have received a Party Wall Notice from a neighbour, our experienced surveyors can guide you through the process from start to finish.
📧 Email us at team@simplesurvey.co.uk for straightforward, expert advice—no jargon, no confusion, just peace of mind.