Party Wall Matters : Party Wall Advice - Building Survey Edenbridge Tunbridge Wells Tonbridge Kent Sussex London UK

: Great. That covers everything I need to know. Thanks very much indeed; I shall certainly recommend your services to any friends who buy in the area."
- Mr. Thomas, Tunbridge Wells

What is the Party Wall etc. Act 1996?

The Party Wall etc. Act 1996 is a legal procedure which should be followed when building work involves excavations close to a neighbouring property, or involves cutting into an existing party wall. Excavations are generally required for extensions or basement conversions. Cutting into a party wall usually occurs during loft conversions.

Party Wall Advice

AParty wall is generally a wall shared between two properties, or it can be two walls where two detached properties are situated close to one another. It can also be a garden wall that sits on a boundary line.

Why Should I follow the act?

The act permits owners to carry out certain specific works, whilst at the same time protecting the interests of anyone else who might be affected by the works.

The act is designed to avoid or minimise disputes by making sure property owners notify their neighbours in advance of certain proposed works. Certain access rights are granted to owners to enable the works to be carried out.

One key element of the process is a condition survey of the neighbouring property before and after the works. The condition is recorded for the structure, the walls, and ceilings – both internally and externally. This enables a check of any changes to the neighbouring property.

In addition many solicitors are now asking to see any Party Wall awards during the conveyancing process when properties are sold. They help to reduce the risk of any disputes connected to building works.

How does the process work?
- We will discuss with you the nature of your proposed building works and prepare the correct party wall notices to serve upon all affected neighbours. They will then have a short period of time to respond and either indicate their willingness to proceed or whether they would prefer to have their party wall rights protected.
  
  If they choose to maintain their protected rights, a Party Wall Surveyor is appointed for each side (sometimes one surveyor – called an Agreed Surveyor is appointed for both sides) and an Award is prepared. This award describes what works are going to be carried out, and how and when. The award also contains the results of the Schedule of Condition Survey of the neighbouring property, which will be carried our BEFORE any works are commenced.
If you are a neighbour to some building works...
- Are you concerned that work is about to start next door but have not yet received any formal party wall notification? Have you received a notice and wish to discuss the process and appoint a surveyor?
  
  If you have concerns that work may be starting without a party wall notice being served, and we conclude that the works will fall under the Party Wall Act, you can seek an order from the court which will stop such works until a notice is served and you are given the opportunity to appoint party wall surveyors.