Step 1: Free Advice

If you have received a notice related to the Party Wall Act and are unsure about how to proceed, reach out to us for free advice. We will provide guidance and answer any questions you may have.

Step 2: Appoint us as your Surveyor

Once you are satisfied with the advice provided, the next step is to appoint us as your Party Wall Surveyor. We will handle all aspects of the process on your behalf, ensuring compliance with the act.

Step 3: Sit Back and Relax

Once we are appointed, you can sit back and relax. We take care of everything from notices to awards, we are with you all the way.

What is the right thing to do?

The Party Wall Act offers a way to protect your interests.

It is common to receive unsolicited ‘ambulance chasing’ letters from Party Wall Surveyors or a surprise notice from your neighbor

By involving a Party Wall Surveyor, you can ensure that any disputes are handled professionally and that the necessary agreements are in place to protect the rights of both parties involved.

By staying well-informed and fostering a friendly atmosphere, you are in the optimal position for us to effectively uphold your rights while preserving harmonious relationships with your neighbours.

FAQ – ADJOINING OWNER

What is the Party Wall Act?

The Party Wall etc. Act of 1996 is a legislation that provides guidelines and procedures for carrying out construction or renovation works that may have an impact on party walls or structures shared with neighbouring properties. Its main purpose is to ensure that the rights and interests of both property owners are protected during such works.

The Act covers various types of works, including:

1. Building on a boundary: If the plan is to construct a new wall, such as for a rear extension, that is located on a boundary between your property and your neighbour’s property, the Act applies.

2. Works to shared walls and structures: If the proposed works involve activities like inserting steel beams or removing chimney breasts that are part of a wall or structure shared with your neighbour, the Act comes into play.

3. Excavations near a neighbour’s property: If the works involve excavations close to your property, such as for foundations or basements, the Act applies to ensure proper safeguards are in place.

My neighbour is doing party wall work, do they need to follow the Party Wall Act?

Your neighbor is required to use the Party Wall Act if their proposed works fall under its jurisdiction. It is important to note that the Act is separate from planning permission or building regulations. Failure to comply with the Act can result in injunctions, delays, and significant legal expenses. Your neighbor must serve you a formal notice informing you of their intended works in order to invoke the Act.

I have received a Notice, what should I do?

Upon receiving a Notice, it is crucial that you do not ignore it. Failing to respond within the specified timeframe allows your neighbor to appoint a party wall surveyor on your behalf.

You have a few options:

** The building owner (your neighbour) will cover your surveyors costs**

1. Consent to the notice: You can agree to the proposed works while still benefiting from the protections provided by the Act.

2. Dissent to the notice and appoint one agreed surveyor: If you choose this route, you are not obligated to use the surveyor suggested by your neighbour. You have the freedom to propose your own surveyor.

3. Dissent to the notice and appoint separate surveyors: This option is typically chosen when you have more significant concerns about your neighbor’s works and the contractor involved.

If you have received a notice, we encourage you to reach out to us. We are here to assist you by reviewing the notice and discussing your available options.

Who pays for Party Wall Surveyors?

In general, the neighbour who is carrying out the work is responsible for covering all costs associated with the Party Wall Surveyor(s). However, it is important to choose your surveyor carefully as their fees should be reasonable. If your appointed surveyor requests unnecessary work or overcharges, you may be held liable for those specific costs.

At our organisation, we prioritise transparency and fairness.

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