In this week’s property party wall surveying blogpost topic, we are going to be discussing party wall trial pits, or party wall trial holes, when they are required, and the purpose behind undertaking them.
The purpose of a trial pit, is for a contractor to undertake an exploratory and controlled dig in close proximity to a neighbouring structure. This enables the architect and engineer to determine the depth and profile of that neighbouring structures foundation.
Once the contractor has undertaken this trial pit and assessed the outcome, they are then able to design a set of accurate construction drawings, that will take into account the neighbouring structure to the full effect.
In many cases the trial pit itself will likely mean there needs to be a change in design to the proposed construction works, however ultimately the change in design is usually implemented to reduce the risk associated with the proposed construction works to that neighbouring structure.
Party wall trial pits are not deemed to be notifiable works under the Party Wall etc Act 1996 instead, they are reasonable works undertaken to ascertain further information, and in due course enable the building owner to go through the appropriate party wall procedures.
Party wall trial pits come in all shapes, sizes and forms, however in our experience tend to be anywhere from a 1m by 1m size, or ultimately a size large enough to enable a contractor to safely dig by hand within that area.
If you are planning on undertaking construction works and believe that a trial pit is required, we would recommend speaking to your architect at the earliest opportunity to ensure that you have a robust and accurate set of construction drawings in place as soon as possible. This will ultimately lend itself to a swift and proactive party wall surveying procedure.
If you would like to discuss your party wall surveying requirements with our team of qualified and experienced party wall surveyors here at Stokemont, give us a call here today and we will be more than happy to assist you.
