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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, are properly informed and given the opportunity to respond.
The following types of work typically require a Party Wall Notice:
Works to a Party Wall
This includes cutting into, raising, thickening, demolishing, or making structural changes to a wall shared between two properties. Notice must be served at least two months before work begins.
Works to a Party Fence Wall
A Party Fence Wall refers to a shared garden wall (not timber or concrete fencing). Notice is also required two months in advance of the works.
Works to a Party Structure
This applies to horizontal separations between properties, such as floors or ceilings between flats or maisonettes. A two-month notice period applies.
Excavations Within 3 Metres
Excavation within three metres of a neighbouring structure, and to a greater depth than its foundations, requires one month’s notice.
Excavations Within 6 Metres
Deep excavations (e.g. for basements or piled foundations) within six metres of another structure may also require notice if they intersect the neighbour’s foundations at a 45° angle.
All of these works trigger the Act and mean the building owner needs to serve a Party Wall Notice on an adjoining owner in advance.
If you want to discuss specific works with our Party Wall Surveyors, get in touch with us now.
