If you’ve been served a Party Wall Notice, it means your neighbour is planning construction work that could affect a shared wall, boundary, or nearby structure on your property. The Party Wall etc. Act 1996 is designed to provide a fair process for resolving issues that can arise during such projects.
It’s important to understand that this notice is a legal document, and how you respond matters. Here are three crucial steps to take after receiving a Party Wall Notice:
1. Review the Notice Thoroughly
Start by carefully reading the contents of the notice. It should outline:
- The type of work being proposed (e.g., excavation, extensions, structural changes).
- Where and when the work will be carried out.
- How it may potentially affect your property.
Pay particular attention if the work includes excavating near your foundations or making alterations to a shared wall. These types of construction activities may raise concerns about structural stability, access, or privacy.
Take note of any questions or objections you may have, as this will help you decide how to respond.
2. Respond Within the Required Timeframe
Under the Party Wall Act, you must respond to the notice within 14 days of receiving it. You have several options:
- Consent to the works – You agree with the proposed work, and no further action is required.
- Dissent – You do not agree and want protections in place, often by appointing a surveyor.
If you choose not to respond within the 14-day window, a dispute is automatically considered to have arisen under the Act. This triggers the need to appoint a surveyor to handle the matter formally.
Dissenting doesn’t necessarily mean you oppose the work entirely—it simply means you want professional input to ensure your property is protected.
3. Appoint a Qualified Party Wall Surveyor
If you have concerns about how the construction might impact your home, it’s wise to appoint a Party Wall Surveyor to represent your interests.
There are two ways this can be handled:
- Agreed Surveyor – You and your neighbour jointly appoint one surveyor to act for both parties.
- Separate Surveyors – Each party appoints their own independent surveyor.
While using an agreed surveyor can save on costs, having your own surveyor ensures you have independent representation throughout the process.
The surveyor’s role is to assess the potential impact of the work and help prepare a legally binding Party Wall Award. This document outlines:
- The scope and timing of the proposed works.
- Access arrangements.
- Responsibility for any damages and repairs.
- Measures to protect both properties.
Need Help Responding to a Party Wall Notice? Simple Survey Is Here for You
Receiving a Party Wall Notice can be intimidating if you’re unfamiliar with the process. At Simple Survey, we help property owners understand their rights, respond appropriately, and protect their property during nearby construction.
Our team of experienced Party Wall Surveyors will:
- Help you interpret the notice and identify any potential concerns.
- Advise you on the best course of action—whether to consent, dissent, or serve a counter-notice.
- Act on your behalf throughout the process to ensure your interests are fully represented.
Get Peace of Mind with Simple Survey
If you’re unsure how to respond to a Party Wall Notice—or simply want to make sure your property is protected—Simple Survey is ready to help. Contact us today for expert guidance and support with Party Wall matters.