Commonly Asked Questions About Party Wall Matters

If you are a property owner planning building works, then you may be wondering about the Party Wall Act. Some areas between buildings, such as walls, require discussion with the neighbouring property which is where the act comes in as a framework for preventing and resolving disputes in relation to Party Walls, Boundary Walls and excavations near neighbouring buildings.

Here are some of the most commonly asked questions about party wall matters, answered.

What is a party wall?

Party walls often separate buildings which belong to different owners but may include garden walls built astride a boundary – known as a party fence wall. If you plan on doing work to these areas, your neighbours must be informed.

The Act covers three types of work:

●Building along the boundary between two properties

●Excavating within prescribed distances of shared or adjoining structures

●Altering a party structure

Notifiable works include cutting into the walls dividing terraced houses to insert beams as part of a loft conversion, excavating within three metres of the neighbour’s property to construct the foundations to an extension and constructing the flank wall of an extension at the boundary. If you are unsure if your planned work is a part of the act, always seek professional advice.

When do I need to hire a Party Wall Surveyor?

It’s better to start preparing things as soon as possible, so hire a party wall surveyor at least 3 months before the proposed building work start date. Be sure to do your research and find a reliable surveyor who has the experience you need.

What will a Party Wall Surveyor do?

Surveyors will help in a number of ways, most importantly to ensure that your project goes smoothly and any disputes are handled correctly.

They can help by:

●Offering advice on the procedure, your obligations and responsibilities

●Reviewing the works proposal which may involve a site inspection depending on the complexity of the works

●Preparing and serving the required Party Wall notices

●Helping with disputes between the building owner and the adjoining owner

●Preparing and serving the Party Wall Award if there are no objections to the work from adjoining owners

Are you looking for a reliable party wall surveyor? Look no further than Simon Levy Associates. Working across London a quick phone call to Simon Levy Associates will put you at ease and one of our devoted team will be able to correctly advise you of your legal rights as a property owner and what your next steps are. Contact us today.