Are my Proposed Works Covered by The Party Wall etc. Act 1996?

Are my Proposed Works Covered by The Party Wall etc. Act 1996?

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Or Call the duty Surveyor direct 07764 589 804   Email info@locallondonsurveyors.co.uk 

Or call the Office on 0207 118 4331  Open 9-9 x 7 days a Week

The Party Wall etc. Act 1996 provides a framework for preventing and resolving disputes in relation to party walls, boundary walls, and excavations near neighbouring buildings. It applies to England and Wales and covers three main types of work:

1. Work on an Existing Party Wall or Party Structure

This includes:

• Cutting into a party wall – for example, to insert beams for a loft conversion or extensions.
• Raising or underpinning a party wall – such as adding another storey to a shared wall.
• Thickening a party wall – typically for structural reinforcement or insulation.
• Demolishing and rebuilding a party wall – if the existing structure is in poor condition.
• Cutting away projections from a party wall – such as removing a chimney breast to gain space.
• Weatherproofing – if one side of the wall needs protection due to exposure from neighbouring works.

2. Construction of New Walls at the Boundary Line

This applies when:

• A new wall is being built on the boundary between two properties.
• The new wall is wholly on one owner’s land, but adjacent to the boundary.

3. Excavation Work Near a Neighbouring Property

This applies when:

• Excavating within 3 metres of a neighbouring structure and the excavation is deeper than the neighbour’s foundations.
• Excavating within 6 metres of a neighbouring structure, if a 45-degree angle is drawn from the bottom of the neighbour’s foundation and the excavation intersects that angle.

Additional Considerations

• Notice Requirement – The building owner must serve written notice to affected neighbours (Adjoining Owners) before carrying out any of the above works.
• Consent or Dispute Resolution – If the Adjoining Owner does not agree, a Party Wall Surveyor(s) may be appointed to resolve disputes.
• Party Wall Agreement (Award) – If necessary, surveyors will draft an Award setting out the work's scope, protections, and access rights.

For immediate attention call the duty Surveyor direct on 07764 589 804

Or the Office on 0207 118 4331   Email info@locallondonsurveyors.co.uk 

Or Click Here for a Quotation