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Understanding the Party Wall Act etc. 1996

Updated: 3 days ago

party walls

Are you facing a dispute with your neighbour over construction plans on a shared boundary? You may need a Party Wall Surveyor to help resolve the matter. Read on to understand the role of a Party Wall Surveyor and how to choose one.




If you live in a semi-detached house, terraced property, or flat, in London or the home counties there’s a good chance you share walls with neighbouring buildings. Before starting any building project, you must establish an agreement regarding the party wall.




The Party Wall Act, etc. 1996 is a legal framework in England and Wales designed to prevent and resolve disputes between neighbours regarding construction on or near shared boundaries. The Act provides guidance on protecting the structural integrity of shared walls and foundations and the effect it has on neighbouring properties when building work is planned.




The Party Wall Act applies to several types of building projects, including:


- Loft conversions

- Foundations within 3 or 6 meters

- Increasing wall thickness

- Adding extensions or additional floors

- Constructing new boundary walls

- Excavations or piling work near property lines




However, the Act does not apply to basic activities like:


- Installing shelves on a party wall

- Replastering or wallpapering

- Electrical rewiring




Before beginning certain works, you are legally required to provide all your affected neighbours with a "Notice" outlining your construction plans. Your neighbours may include Freeholders, leaseholders and tenants, and one project may involve several neighbours




Your neighbour/s then has 14 days to formally respond to your proposal. Hiring a Party Wall Surveyor may become necessary.




Rellim Surveyors will check your technical drawing free of charge and can draft and serve Legally compliant Notices with no money upfront, in our experience, serving notices professionally give you the best chance of a positive outcome.





For more information, or to get in touch with one of our accredited surveyors,


Telephone: 0333 090 7598 ( Local Fee )

Call Us: 0771 899 1294

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