In this weeks property surveying blog post, we are going to be discussing the type of temporary protective precautions that can be implemented during the course of construction works directly to a party wall.
If you live in a terraced or semi-detached, you will share as party wall with you neighbour. If you are planning on undertaking construction works to this party wall, such as cutting into or away from the wall itself, you will need to go through the procedures as set out by the Party Wall etc Act 1996.
As part of these procedures and the eventual agreement of a party wall award, protective provisions will have to be implemented during the course of the proposed construction works.
One of the most common type of protective temporary provisions, is the installation of temporary plastic sheeting to the adjoining owners side of the party wall, in any position whereby there are open vents, or open chimney flues, or breasts.
While the installation of this type of temporary protection is a simple one, the benefits are far and wide and can extensively save the potential for risk and damage.
In covering the vents and flues, the building owner will be ensuring that any vibration caused to the party wall and resulting dust, soot or debris does not enter the adjoining owners property through these normal openings.
If these openings weren’t covered, the reality is a significant amount of dust would enter the adjoining owners property in many cases causing damage to furnishings and furniture which can not only be of great expense, but of significant inconvenience as well.
If you neighbour is planning on undertaking construction works and you are concerned about the impact upon your property, or you are planning on undertaking construction works to your property and would like to enquire about our party wall surveying services give our team of experienced and qualified party wall surveyors a call now and we will be more than happy to assist you.
