If you’re planning to renovate, extend, or build close to your property boundary, the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 may apply to your project—whether you realise it or not.
Even if you’re buying a home with existing planning permission or intending to carry out works later, having a solid understanding of the Party Wall Act will save you hassle, delay, and costly disputes down the line.
So—what is a party wall, and what does the Act actually do?
🧱 What Is a Party Wall?
A party wall is more than just the brick barrier between two terraced or semi-detached homes. It also includes:
- Shared boundary walls between properties
- The structure separating flats (like floors and ceilings)
- Garden walls built on the boundary line
- Any wall or structure shared with a neighbouring property
Essentially, it’s any structure that touches two properties and could be affected by building works.
🏗️ When Does the Party Wall Act Apply?
The Party Wall Act gives you the legal right to carry out certain types of work—but it also ensures your neighbours are properly informed and protected.
You’ll need to serve written notice to any ‘adjoining owners’ (which might include freeholders, leaseholders, and tenants) if you plan to:
- Build on or up to a boundary
- Cut into a party wall (e.g. for a steel beam during a loft conversion)
- Dig foundations within 3 or 6 metres of neighbouring buildings
- Remove chimney breasts or make structural alterations to shared walls
- Carry out basement works
Good to know: You only need a formal Party Wall Award if your neighbours disagree with the proposed works—or if they fail to respond within the required timeframe.
📄 Do I Need Permission from My Neighbours?
Yes—in the form of a Party Wall Notice. This must be served in writing and include key details such as:
- What works are being planned
- When they’re scheduled to begin
- How those works could affect the shared structure
Neighbours have 14 days to respond. If they agree, you can proceed. If they dissent or don’t reply, a surveyor (or two) will need to be appointed to resolve the matter and issue a Party Wall Award.
🤝 Keep It Friendly – Start with a Conversation
Before you post a legal notice through the door, it’s best to talk to your neighbours first. A friendly chat about your plans—and how you’ll minimise disruption—can go a long way in avoiding formal disputes.
📬 Still Unsure What Steps to Take?
Whether you’re planning a loft conversion, an extension, or digging new foundations, Simple Survey is here to help you navigate the process confidently and legally.
Our experienced surveyors will:
- Assess whether the Act applies to your project
- Prepare and serve valid Party Wall Notices
- Act as appointed surveyors if needed
- Draft Party Wall Awards
- Help you avoid delays and neighbourly disputes
📧 Get in touch at team@simplesurvey.co.uk for expert guidance on your Party Wall obligations—before you start building.