If you’re planning a construction project that could impact a shared wall, boundary, or nearby foundations, it’s likely the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 will apply. This legislation is designed to prevent disputes and protect all parties when building work affects adjoining properties.
Whether you’re adding an extension, converting your loft, or digging new foundations, serving the right Party Wall Notice is a legal requirement. Get it wrong, and you could face costly delays or legal action.
At Simple Survey, our experienced surveyors make the process straightforward and stress-free. For professional advice tailored to your project, email us at team@simplesurvey.co.uk.
🧱 What is a Party Wall Notice?
A Party Wall Notice is a formal, legal document served by the property owner planning the works (known as the Building Owner) to their neighbour(s) (the Adjoining Owner(s)), informing them of the proposed work.
The notice gives your neighbours the right to consent or dissent, and ensures any work carried out is done properly and without damage to their property.
đź“ť Which Party Wall Notice Do You Need?
There are three types of Party Wall Notices, depending on the nature of your project:
- Section 1 Notice – for building on the boundary line (e.g. a garden wall or extension)
- Section 3 Notice – for work directly on a party wall or structure (e.g. inserting steel beams)
- Section 6 Notice – for excavations within 3 metres of your neighbour’s foundations, where you’re digging deeper than their foundation level (e.g. for a basement or deeper footings)
Each notice must describe your proposals in sufficient detail. Vague terms like “extension” are not acceptable and could invalidate the notice if challenged.
đź’ˇ Drawings are required for Section 6 Notices, and are highly recommended for Sections 1 and 3 to help explain the proposed works.
✍️ What Must Be Included in a Party Wall Notice?
To be valid, a Party Wall Notice must:
- Be in writing and signed by the building owner(s) or an authorised Party Wall Surveyor
- Include the name and address of the building owner
- Provide a clear description of the proposed works, along with start dates
- Include drawings for excavation or foundation works
- Be dated on the day it is served
- Be served on all adjoining owners (both freeholders and leaseholders, if applicable)
📬 How Can You Serve a Party Wall Notice?
The Act specifies four legally valid ways to serve a Party Wall Notice:
1. In Person (By Hand)
Give the notice directly to the neighbour. If you don’t know their name, address it to “The Owner” and hand it to the occupant. You must not simply post it through the letterbox.
2. By Post
Send it to your neighbour’s usual or last known UK address. Always request proof of postage or use recorded delivery for legal protection.
3. By Email (With Prior Consent)
Email is acceptable only if your neighbour has agreed in writing to receive documents this way. Without their explicit consent, email service is not legally valid for initial notices.
4. Affixing to the Property
If you cannot identify or contact the adjoining owner, you may serve notice by affixing it to a conspicuous part of their property (e.g. the front door). Take clear photographs for your records—both close-up and wider shots to show the notice in place.
🛑 Why Serving the Correct Notice Matters
Incorrect service can invalidate your notice, delay your project, and lead to legal disputes. This is why most property owners choose to work with a qualified party wall surveyor to ensure everything is handled properly.
đź“ž Need Help Serving a Party Wall Notice?
At Simple Survey, we’re here to make the Party Wall process painless. Whether you need help drafting a notice, liaising with neighbours, or managing the entire award process, our team of RICS-accredited surveyors have you covered.