If you want to make renovations to your house, you may require a party wall agreement before you can begin construction. The Party Wall etc. Act 1996 is the applicable legislation for certain sorts of building works that impact (and may cause harm to) a wall or structure shared by two building owners – the “party wall.” This might be the wall between two terraced or semi-detached residences, or it could be the ceiling separating two apartments. Additionally, it might be a shared garden wall.
There are three categories of construction projects covered by the Act:
- alterations to a shared building or wall
- Construction along the border line of two properties
- Excavations within a given distance of the party wall/structure are prohibited.
The Party Wall Act applies when roof supports for a loft conversion are inserted into the walls of a terraced or semi-detached property, when foundations are dug close to a neighbouring structure for a conservatory or home extension, for basement conversions, and when garden walls are constructed on a boundary. Bradford Surveys Party Wall
Our Greater London-based team of expert party wall surveyors has vast knowledge in all party wall-related concerns. In this blog article, we provide crucial facts to assist you comprehend the situation.
Notice of Party Wall Construction
Before beginning any construction project including a party wall, the Building Owner is required by law to secure a formal Party Wall Agreement from all adjacent property owners (Adjoining Owners). This involves providing Adjoining Owners with a formal Party Wall Notice outlining the intended work. You must provide a written notice of at least 2 months for construction projects impacting a party wall or border, and at least 3 months for excavations.
There are several methods for serving a Party Wall Notice; you can read a thorough explanation on this blog article, and there are downloadable sample forms accessible on the internet. However, party wall regulation is a notoriously difficult area of the law. And failure to comply, for whatever reason, might result in substantial financial penalties and project delays. Therefore, we would always advise you to seek competent counsel.
On a regular basis, we represent Building Owners and Adjoining Owners. Ensuring that the legal procedure is carried out effectively, competently. And in full compliance so that all parties’ interests are protected. Call our office now to talk with an expert.
Obtaining an Agreement on Party Walls
After receiving Notice, your neighbor(s) have 14 days to react. There are three potential results:
- You obtain the Adjoining Owner(s)’ signed approval on the premise that you will resolve any issues that may arise. It is standard procedure to photograph the party wall and annotate any cracks, with a copy sent to both parties. You might also hire a party wall surveyor to create a Schedule of Condition to reduce the likelihood of future conflicts.
- After 14 days, the Adjoining Owner objects or no response is obtained. In this scenario, you are considered to be in dispute, and it will be necessary to employ a party wall surveyor who can act on behalf of both you and the adjoining owner(s) to draught a Party Wall Award containing details of the proposed works and a Schedule of Condition.
- Although appointing a joint surveyor is the most cost-effective option, each party is still permitted to hire their own party wall surveyor. Keep in mind that the Building Owner is legally responsible for paying for the surveyors of Adjoining Owners as well as his own.
Visit our Frequently Asked Questions page for additional information regarding party wall issues.
Maintaining amicable connections with neighbours
Without wishing to state the obvious, your loft conversion, basement addition. Or any other project that impacts the party wall will be more likely to run smoothly if you have good relations with your neighbours. It is your responsibility to comfort them. And dispel any anxieties they may have regarding any potential harm to their property caused by your construction.
Rather than simply dropping a Party Wall Notice through their mailbox without any previous notice. It may be preferable to have an initial conversation with them. Share your ideas for the construction along with rough sketches so they can see your plans and ask questions. Spend time ensuring your neighbours that you care as much as they do about following correct technique. When you serve them with Notice, they will already be aware of your plans and may have no cause to oppose.
Finally, your neighbours have every right to request the contact information for your surveyor or building contractor. Ensure that you do not prevent them from receiving further information and professional assurance on your impending job.
Contact us for expert guidance and support with party wall issues in North London, the rest of the capital, and beyond. With many years of experience in residential property surveys and valuations and as party wall surveyors. We can assist you in preparing the required Party Wall Notice. And Party Wall Awards to ensure that your building works are carried out in accordance with the law. And with the least amount of disruption to you and your neighbours.
