This is part of our 60 second read series of articles!
If your neighbour plans to carry out work affecting:
- A shared wall, floor, garden wall
- Excavates within 6 metres of your property
- Builds near the boundary line
The Party Wall etc. Act 1996 applies.
They are legally required to serve you, the adjoining owner, with a Party Wall Notice at least 1–2 months before starting work.
Once you receive the Notice, you have three response options:
- Consent – allowing work to proceed with no further action.
- Dissent and appoint your own surveyor – who will assess the works and protect your interests.
- Dissent and agree to a joint surveyor – one surveyor acts impartially for both parties.
All Party Wall Surveying costs are paid by the building owner, regardless of your response.
If you dissent, the party wall surveyor, or surveyors, will:
- Review construction plans
- Conduct a Schedule of Condition to document your property’s condition
- Draft a legally binding Party Wall Award, outlining construction limits, protections, and remedies in case of damage
After construction, a final inspection ensures your property is unchanged. If damage has occurred, repairs or compensation will be arranged at no cost to you.
If you want to speak with a Party Wall Surveyor, get in touch with us now.
