The UK pub sector is facing a serious and on-going crisis with an average of six pubs closing each week over 2024. This hasn’t improved in 2025, so far close to 300 establishments in England and Wales have shut their doors permanently. While this hits the already...
Notice of Adjacent Excavation
Under the Party Wall etc. Act 1996, excavation (digging) work within six metres of any neighbouring buildings or structures gives rise to the need for a Party Wall Notice. You will often hear party wall surveyors refer to the works that fall within the scope of the...
What Makes a Great Party Wall Surveyor?
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,...