If you’re planning a loft conversion, rear extension, or other major home improvement in London, there’s a key legal process you might need to follow — the Party Wall Agreement, formally referred to as a Party Wall Award.
While it may sound like yet another hurdle alongside planning permission, building regulations, and structural calculations, the process exists to safeguard the rights of both you and your neighbours, ensuring work can proceed without disputes or unexpected legal complications.
When Is a Party Wall Agreement Required?
Under the Party Wall etc. Act 1996, certain types of building work require formal notice to adjoining property owners. These include:
- Working on a wall shared with a neighbour (a “party wall”).
- Excavating near a neighbour’s foundations, such as for an extension.
- Making structural alterations that affect shared boundaries.
Before starting these works, you must serve a Party Wall Notice to the affected neighbours. If they consent in writing, you can proceed without a formal Award — although you remain liable for any damage caused.
If your neighbour dissents (the legal term for declining consent), a Party Wall Surveyor — or two surveyors, one for each party — must prepare a formal Party Wall Award. This document authorises the work to proceed under specific terms and protects the rights of all parties involved.
What Does a Party Wall Award Include?
A standard Award will usually consist of:
- The Written Award — outlining the agreed works, working hours, protection measures, and how any damage will be handled.
- Surveyor Oversight — ensuring the process is compliant with the Act and impartial to both parties.
It’s not simply a formality — it’s a practical framework to prevent disputes and clarify exactly how work will be carried out.
Benefits of Having a Party Wall Agreement
While compliance with the law is reason enough, a well-prepared Party Wall Agreement offers additional advantages:
- Prevents misunderstandings between neighbours.
- Sets clear expectations for timelines, access, and site conduct.
- Provides an agreed method for resolving any issues that arise.
- Offers peace of mind to both property owners.
In short, it’s your construction project’s safety net.
Can You Do It Yourself?
You can serve your own Party Wall Notice, but you cannot legally write your own Award — the Act requires it to be prepared by a qualified surveyor who is not a party to the works.
While free templates are available from the government, missing key details or not following the strict requirements could cause delays, disputes, or even invalidate your notice. A professional surveyor will ensure compliance and handle the process efficiently.
Why Use a Professional Surveyor?
Experienced Party Wall Surveyors bring:
- Specialist knowledge of the Act and its procedures.
- The ability to foresee and resolve potential conflicts.
- Impartiality and professionalism to maintain good neighbour relations.
Their involvement not only ensures legal compliance but also keeps your project moving without unnecessary stress.
How Long Is an Award Valid?
Once signed, a Party Wall Award is typically valid for 12 months. Starting work too long after the Award is issued may mean having to repeat the process — including fresh surveys — so timing is important.
Final Thoughts
If you’re carrying out work near a shared boundary, understanding the Party Wall process is essential. It’s not just a legal formality — it’s a safeguard for your property, your project, and your relationship with your neighbours.
For expert, cost-effective advice and assistance with Party Wall Agreements, contact team@simplesurvey.co.uk — the UK’s most affordable party wall surveyors.