What is a party wall?
If you own a semi-detached or terraced property you share a party wall or walls with your neighbour.
However where a wall seperates buildings of different sizes or heights, only that part which is shared by both properties
is usually a party wall.
A wall which is built on the boundary of land belonging to different owners may also be a party wall or party fence
wall.
What is covered by the Act?
You must serve suitable notices on and get your neighbours agreement before you can start any work which involves a party
wall, such as;
Extensions
Damp-proofing works
Internal refurbishment
Structural alterations
Excavating or constructing foundations within three of six mteres of neighbouring structures to a depth lower than
the foundtaions of the neighbouring structures may also require notices serving and written agreement before the works can
commence.
The proposed building of a new wall on the line of a boundary you may also be covered by the Act.
Procedures
The Party Wall etc Act 1996 gives the building owner certain rights, as well as protecting adjoining owners rights.
It is very important however that the notices and procedures followed comply with the Act to avoid delays and expense.
Please contact us for advice if you are proposing to carry out works covered by the Act or if you have had a notice served
on you.
