The Party Wall etc. Act 1996 came into effect across England and Wales on 1 July 1997. Its origins can be traced back to legislation introduced after the Great Fire of London in 1666, when rules were first created to regulate shared walls between properties.
The Act provides a clear legal framework for property owners carrying out building works that may affect neighbouring structures. In simple terms, it requires a Building Owner to notify Adjoining Owners (neighbours) before certain works can begin. This ensures that neighbours are protected, potential disputes are reduced, and any issues that arise can be resolved fairly.
What is a Party Wall?
A party wall is a wall or structure that separates two properties. This can include:
- Shared boundary walls.
- Garden boundary walls.
- Floors or ceilings between flats (known as party structures).
Examples of works that typically require a party wall agreement include:
- Underpinning, rebuilding, or raising a wall.
- Cutting into a wall to insert beams, damp proofing, or flashings.
- Removing chimney breasts.
- Chasing into walls or floors for pipes and electrics.
- Loft conversions requiring steel beams to be fixed into a shared wall.
Common Construction Works Requiring Notice
Loft Conversions
When steels are installed into a party wall (usually supported on concrete padstones), a Section 2 Notice must be served on neighbours before work starts.
Basement Works
Lowering a basement floor or excavating beneath foundations often requires underpinning of a party wall. In such cases, a Section 6 Notice must be served, and a Party Wall Award agreed before work can commence.
Excavations and Extensions
If you plan to excavate within 3 metres of a neighbouring property (or within 6 metres in some cases), you may need to serve notice under the Act. Extensions close to adjoining buildings frequently fall into this category. A chartered surveyor should be consulted to confirm whether a Party Wall Award is required.
What is a Party Wall Award?
A Party Wall Award is a legally binding document prepared by surveyors that sets out how works will proceed and protects the interests of all parties. It typically includes:
- Architectural and structural drawings.
- Engineers’ calculations.
- Method statements for the works.
- Security for expenses (if required).
- Insurance provisions.
- Agreed working hours and access arrangements.
- Allocation of costs.
📩 Need expert advice on Party Wall matters?
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