Having undertaken party wall surveying work for well over 15 years, we thought we would share our thoughts on what makes a great party wall surveyor. A great party wall surveyor brings much more to the table than just an understanding of the Party Wall etc. Act 1996....
What Is a Party Fence Wall?
A party fence wall is defined by Section 20 of the Party Wall etc. Act 1996, which deals with interpretation, as follows: “Party fence wall” means a wall (not being part of a building) which stands on land belonging to different owners and is used or constructed to be...
Party Wall Sound Insulation
If you live in a flat, a terraced house, or a semi-detached home, chances are you're well accustomed to sound transmission from one property to another. A question we’re being asked more frequently is: Does the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 allow an Adjoining Owner (the...
Labour’s Property Plans
As we approach a year of Labour being in power, we thought it would be an ideal time to look at their housing and property commitments. The Labour government has pledged to deliver 1.5 million homes during their five-year term in office. To put this into perspective,...
How Much is a New Kitchen?
Kitchen renovations are one of the most popular forms of renovation work homeowners can embark on. They can transform the space, update the kitchen with modern energy saving appliances and, in many cases, change the way a kitchen plays an integral role in your home....
How to Get Planning Permission in London
If you’re reading this, you’re probably well on your way to embarking on a home renovation project. However, to achieve the exact design and use of space you want, it’s important to carefully consider your application for planning permission. London’s local...
Beginners Guide to the Party Wall Process
Part of our 60-second read series! The Party Wall etc. Act 1996 is a legal framework in England and Wales designed to prevent and resolve disputes between neighbours when building work affects shared walls, boundary walls, or nearby excavations. If construction works...
When Is a Party Wall Notice Necessary?
This is part of our 60 second read series of articles! The Party Wall etc. Act 1996 requires that formal Party Wall Notices are served before certain types of construction work can begin. These legal notices ensure that affected neighbours, known as adjoining owners,...
What Triggers the Party Wall Process?
This is part of our 60 second read series of articles! The Party Wall etc. Act 1996 applies to specific construction works that may impact shared walls or nearby structures. If your project involves any of the following, Party Wall procedures must be followed:...
Adjoining Owner Guidance: The Party Wall Act
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...