Serving a Valid Party Wall Notice: Avoiding the Common Pitfalls

Serving a valid Party Wall Notice is the critical first step in engaging the Party Wall etc. Act 1996.

💡 Can You Serve Your Own Party Wall Notice?

Yes—you’re entirely within your legal rights to draft and serve your own Party Wall Notices. The Act doesn’t require you to use a surveyor for this step.

However, just because you can do it yourself doesn’t mean you should.

We regularly inspect notices that homeowners have prepared, many contain critical errors that render them invalid. These mistakes can delay your project, escalate neighbour disputes, and lead to unnecessary surveyor fees down the line.

📄 Free Party Wall Notice Templates

To help you start on the right foot, we offer free Party Wall Notice templates, legally aligned with each section of the Act:

  • Section 1 – Line of Junction Notice
  • Section 3 – Party Structure Notice
  • Section 6 – Adjacent Excavation Notice

Still, the template is only one part of the process—you must fill it out and serve it correctly.

🧱 Before You Serve: Key Steps for a Valid Notice

Here’s a checklist to help you avoid the common mistakes:

  • 🔍 Run a Land Registry Search – Ensure the notice is addressed to all legal owners.
  • 📬 Use the Correct Notice Type – Match the works to the relevant section of the Act.
  • 📐 Attach Drawings – Section 6 notices should include foundation and location plans.
  • 📚 Understand the Act – Do your research!
  • ✍️ Proofread Your Notice – One small wording error can invalidate the entire notice.

✉️ Serving the Notice: How to Do It Right

You have three valid options to serve a Party Wall Notice:

  1. First-Class Post – The most common method. Always obtain a Proof of Posting Certificate. Avoid recorded delivery, as it can be refused.
  2. Hand Delivery – Make sure to photograph or film the delivery for evidence.
  3. Prominent Display on the Property – Only in rare cases. Again, record proof.

🏠 Your Local Party Wall Experts – Simple Survey

We’re a professional, friendly and fully qualified team of Party Wall Surveyors. We offer the following;

✅ Serving Notices
✅ Building & Adjoining Owner Representation
✅ 10(4) Appointments

📩 Get in Touch Today

Whether you’re starting your notice or already deep into the Party Wall process, we’re here to help. Email team@simplesurvey.co.uk for expert advice and a fast, affordable quote.

Let’s make party wall compliance simple.