Party Wall Agreements UK: Everything You Need to Know

If you`re planning on carrying out building work that affects a shared wall or structure in England or Wales, then you need to be aware of the Party Wall Act 1996. This legislation was introduced to provide a framework for resolving disputes between neighbours who share walls, boundary walls, or excavations.

What is a Party Wall Agreement?

A party wall agreement is a legal document that outlines the rights and obligations of both parties when carrying out building work that affects a shared wall or structure. If you and your neighbour are planning on carrying out work that falls under the Party Wall Act, then you need to agree to the terms of a party wall agreement.

The agreement will detail the scope of the work, who is responsible for costs, timings, and any other important information that is relevant to the project. Once the agreement is signed and in place, you can proceed with the work knowing that you have the necessary permissions and approvals in place.

What Types of Work Require a Party Wall Agreement?

Work that could affect a shared wall or structure include:

– Building a new wall or structure on a boundary line

– Cutting into a party wall to insert a beam

– Repairing a party wall

– Demolishing and rebuilding a party wall

– Excavating within a certain distance of a party wall or foundation

It`s important to note that not all building work will require a party wall agreement. For example, if you`re just painting or decorating your side of a shared wall, then this would not fall under the act.

How Do You Get a Party Wall Agreement?

To get a party wall agreement in place, you will need to follow a set process:

1. Serve notice to your neighbours: You need to serve a formal notice to your neighbours stating your intention to carry out building work. This should include details of the work, timings, and any other relevant information. You should give your neighbours at least two months` notice before starting any work.

2. Your neighbours can either agree to the work or dissent: If your neighbours agree to the work, then you can proceed without the need for a party wall agreement. If they dissent, then you will need to appoint a surveyor to draw up the agreement.

3. Appoint a surveyor: You will need to appoint a party wall surveyor to draw up the party wall agreement. This can either be a shared surveyor or two separate surveyors – one for each party.

4. Agree to the terms of the agreement: Once the surveyor has drawn up the agreement, you and your neighbour will need to agree to the terms of the agreement and sign it.

5. Carry out the work: Once the agreement is in place, you can proceed with the work knowing that you have the necessary permissions and approvals in place.

Conclusion

If you`re planning on carrying out building work that affects a shared wall or structure, then it`s essential that you follow the correct process and get a party wall agreement in place. This will ensure that you and your neighbour are working within the guidelines of the Party Wall Act and will help to avoid any disputes or issues further down the line. To find out more about party wall agreements in the UK, contact a specialist party wall surveyor or seek advice from your local council.