Party Walls

We advise our clients to always take notice of the need to inform their neighbours if they propose to undertake building works to, or near a Party Wall. If they fail to do so, the Adjoining Owners may have the right to apply to the courts to have the works stopped. This is a delay and expense that few Building Owners want or can afford! 
Before undertaking building works that affect a Party Wall, the Building Owner must formally notify their neighbour of the proposed works. Works affected include those that involve alterations to, excavation near, or the building of a new Party Wall. A Party Wall Award should be prepared and agreed before works can commence.

When planning works of this type, it is advisable to appoint a Party Wall Surveyor to act on your behalf. Your Party Wall Surveyor can formally serve notices, negotiate with the Adjoining Owners and agree Party Wall Awards. A Party Wall Surveyor will also supervise all notifiable works throughout the project.
Party Wall Awards ensure that existing damage is recorded in a Schedule of Condition before works take place; provide a right of access to the adjoining property to execute work and have many other benefits.

Hiring a Party Wall Surveyor to agree Party Wall Awards should be considered essential if you are planning the following:
  • Cutting into a Party Wall
  • Raising or lowering a Party Wall
  • Excavating within 3m of a neighbouring property
  • Excavating within 6m of a neighbouring property
  • Building a structure on a boundary between two properties
  • Building a structure on your own land, but on the boundary
Stag Lodge | 10 Kenwood Bank | Sheffield | South Yorkshire | S7 1NU 07966 066699 James@yorkshiresurveys.com