Simple Survey – Local Party Wall Surveyors
Section 2 of the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 sets out what kind of works a property owner is legally allowed to carry out on an existing shared or adjoining structure — such as cutting into, rebuilding, strengthening, or repairing a party wall.
However, the Act also requires that you formally notify your neighbour(s) before any of these works begin.
📩 Need help with Section 2? Speak to a Party Wall Surveyor today.
What does Section 2 cover?
Section 2 applies to building works that directly affect a party wall, party fence wall, or party structure (for example, walls or floors shared between flats).
Typical works include:
- Cutting into a party wall (e.g. for steel beams or joists).
- Raising, thickening, or extending a party wall.
- Demolishing and rebuilding all or part of a shared wall.
- Underpinning foundations of a party wall (often in basement construction).
- Removing chimney breasts attached to the shared wall.
- Inserting damp-proofing, flashings, or insulation into a party wall.
- Carrying out structural repairs to keep the wall sound.
In all cases, written notice must be served on the adjoining owner(s) — normally two months before work starts. If they consent in writing, work can proceed. If they dissent or fail to reply, surveyors may need to be appointed to prepare a Party Wall Award that sets out how the work should proceed fairly.
Why Section 2 matters
Section 2 exists to:
- Protect both property owners when shared walls or structures are altered.
- Provide a legal process for resolving disagreements.
- Avoid unnecessary damage and neighbour disputes.
If the process is ignored, you risk delays, legal action, or even a court injunction stopping your project.
Section 2 compliance checklist
Before starting work that may affect a shared wall, make sure you:
- Confirm if Section 2 applies to your project.
- Serve the correct notice at least two months in advance.
- Share accurate drawings/plans with your neighbour.
- Allow time for consent or for surveyors to resolve disputes.
- Keep clear records of all notices and responses.
- Budget for surveyor costs if needed (usually paid by the building owner).
- Use an experienced local surveyor to guide you.
Common misconceptions about Section 2
- “It’s only small work, so I don’t need notice.”
Even minor works (like cutting into the wall) usually require notice. - “My neighbour can block my project completely.”
Not true — if your works are lawful and notices are served correctly, neighbours cannot simply prevent the work. - “I can start straight after sending notice.”
You must wait the required notice period (usually 2 months). - “Surveyors work for the person who appointed them.”
Surveyors act impartially under the Act — their duty is to the law, not to either side. - “Boundary fences are included.”
Section 2 only applies to shared walls and structures — garden fences are not covered.
Get expert help with Section 2
If your planned works fall under Section 2, professional guidance makes the process far smoother. At Simple Survey – Local Party Wall Surveyors, we handle everything from preparing and serving notices to resolving disputes through formal Party Wall Awards.
📩 Email team@simplesurvey.co.uk — trusted, cost-effective Party Wall Surveyors across England & Wales.