If you are planning a house extension, loft conversion, or any building work near a shared boundary, you need to understand the Party Wall etc. Act 1996.
What Is the Party Wall Act?
The Party Wall etc. Act 1996 provides a framework for resolving disputes between neighbours when building work affects shared walls, boundaries, or nearby structures. It covers three types of work:
- Work directly to a party wall: Such as inserting a beam, underpinning, or raising the height
- New construction at the boundary line
- Excavation near neighbouring buildings: Digging within 3 metres of a neighbouring structure
When Does It Apply?
- Rear and side extensions near neighbour boundaries
- Loft conversions involving shared party walls
- Removing a chimney breast from a party wall
- Underpinning a shared wall
- Building a garden wall on the boundary line
- Basement excavation near a boundary
The Notice Process
You must serve written notice before starting covered work:
- Party Structure Notice: 2 months before work starts
- Line of Junction Notice: 1 month before
- Notice of Adjacent Excavation: 1 month before
After Serving Notice
Your neighbour has 14 days to respond. If they consent, you proceed. If they dissent or do not respond, you must appoint a Party Wall Surveyor who prepares a legally binding Party Wall Award.
Costs
Party Wall Surveyor fees range from £700 to £1,500 per neighbour. Speak to neighbours informally first to reduce the chance of disputes.
How QM Designs Can Help
Our drawings clearly show the relationship between your proposed work and neighbouring properties. Contact us for expert guidance on the Party Wall Act.
