Are you planning work near a shared wall or boundary with your neighbour? Or maybe you’ve just received a Party Wall Notice and aren’t sure what to do next? The Party Wall etc. Act 1996 is designed to make projects like this straightforward, protecting both homeowners and neighbours from disputes.
With clear steps for notice, discussion, and agreements, the Act ensures your home improvements can go ahead safely — and your neighbour stays happy.
Why the Party Wall Act Matters
The Party Wall Act exists to keep building work safe and neighbourly. It:
- Protects your property and your neighbour’s.
- Sets out rules for shared walls, floors, and boundaries.
- Provides a structured process for disputes.
- Helps prevent unexpected damage during renovations.
Whether you’re planning a loft conversion, a basement, or major repairs, knowing the rules keeps your project stress-free.
Who’s Involved?
There are two roles under the Act:
| Role | Who They Are | Responsibility |
| Building Owner | The person doing the work | Serve notices, cover surveyor costs, fix any damage |
| Adjoining Owner | The neighbour | Review notices, request surveys, protect their property |
Even if your neighbour seems supportive, you must serve a written notice — verbal agreements aren’t legally enough.
When to Serve a Party Wall Notice
Timing is key. Your notice must be served before work begins:
- Party walls/structures: 2 months before starting.
- Excavations or new walls on the boundary: 1 month before starting.
- Emergency repairs: immediate, with explanation.
The notice should clearly include:
- Your full name and address
- Description of the work
- Start date and expected duration
- Any drawings or plans
Remember: failing to respond or ignoring a notice counts as a deemed dispute, and a surveyor will need to step in.
How to Handle a Party Wall Notice
When you receive a notice, read it carefully and respond in writing:
- Consent if you’re happy with the proposed work.
- Dissent if you have concerns, which triggers surveyor involvement.
A Party Wall Surveyor is impartial and helps:
- Check the plans
- Document the condition of your property (Schedule of Condition)
- Prepare a Party Wall Award if there’s a dispute
Even if you consent, it’s wise to request a Schedule of Condition to protect yourself from future claims.
What is a Party Wall Award?
A Party Wall Award is a formal document prepared by a surveyor that:
- Confirms what work can happen
- Sets timelines and working hours
- Outlines how any damage will be repaired
- Includes financial protection if work is abandoned
Think of it as a safety net that keeps both neighbours informed and protected.
Common Disputes & How Surveyors Help
Neighbours may disagree about:
- Noise and working hours
- Loss of light
- Access to their property
- Structural impact
Surveyors resolve disputes by:
- Acting as impartial referees
- Inspecting properties before and during works
- Ensuring the Act’s rules are followed
Tips for a Smooth Party Wall Process
- Talk early: Start conversations before serving formal notice.
- Be clear and honest: Outline what the works involve and how you’ll reduce disruption.
- Hire a surveyor: They protect your property and your neighbour’s.
- Document everything: Keep copies of notices, emails, and responses.
- Respect working hours: Avoid unnecessary tension and complaints.
Early planning and open communication can prevent most disputes and keep projects on schedule.
Legal Considerations
The Party Wall Act works alongside:
- Planning Permission: For extensions, lofts, or basements
- Building Regulations: Ensures work is safe and compliant
Even if you follow the Act perfectly, you still need approval from your local council and building control where required.
Conclusion
The Party Wall Act 1996 protects both you and your neighbour, providing a clear framework for notice, discussion, and agreements. Acting early, responding to notices promptly, and hiring a professional surveyor are the best ways to prevent disputes.
At Simple Survey, we offer affordable Party Wall Surveyor services across England and Wales. Our goal is to make the process fast, simple, and stress-free — so your project can go ahead safely while keeping neighbourly relations intact.
Email us today at team@simplesurvey.co.uk to arrange your Party Wall consultation.
FAQ
What is a Party Wall Notice?
A formal letter alerting your neighbour of planned works affecting a shared wall, floor, or boundary.
Who is the Building Owner?
The person planning or carrying out work that affects the shared structure.
Why do I need a Party Wall Surveyor?
Surveyors guide both sides, resolve disputes, and ensure the agreement is fair.
What if there’s a dispute?
Surveyors prepare a Party Wall Award, which is legally enforceable and sets out work conditions, repairs, and timelines.
Can I start work if my neighbour doesn’t reply?
No. If there’s no response, appointing a surveyor is required before work can begin.
How long before starting work should I serve notice?
1–2 months depending on the type of work. Party walls: 2 months; new walls or excavations: 1 month.