Party Wall Matters

If you live in a semi-detached or terraced property as well as flat or maisonette then parts of your property are shared with a neighbour. If you or your neighbour wish to carry out work on this shared part or to extend your existing property then the provisions of the Party Wall etc Act 1996 will most probably apply.

I’ve received a Notice from my neighbour which refers to the Party Wall etc Act 1996, what do I do?

Contact Tony Pearson for an obligation free chat on what will be the best course of action. Any fees we charge will probably be paid by your neighbour proposing the work.

I’m planning building work on my property, how do I know if the work brings in to play the Act?

Typical works that bring the Party Wall Act in to play include extensions, loft conversions, basement conversions and removal of chimney breasts. An extension may also bring in to play the Act on a detached property. This will occur if your extension is going to be within 3 metres of the boundary and in some circumstances if the extensions is within 6 metres of the boundary.

It should be noted that the intention of the Act is not to stop you from completing your proposed building works, in fact quite the opposite. As long as you fulfil certain obligations, serving correct notices in prescribed time scales then the Act can give you an ability to complete your plans that may not otherwise be allowed. This is why the involvement of a professional surveyor at an early stage is advised.