Why Do You Need Party Wall Agreements?

When carrying out building work near or on a shared property boundary (known as a party wall), or when excavating near the foundation of a neighbouring property, it is a legal requirement to notify your neighbours. This applies to projects involving existing party walls, boundary walls, or excavation work that could affect a shared structure. We collaborate with a highly experienced Party Wall Surveyor in the construction industry in both the Chartered Institute of Builders (MCIOB) and the Faculty of Party Wall Surveyors (MFPWS).

The Process of Serving a Party Wall Notice

The first step is issuing a Party Wall Notice, formally informing your neighbours of your intent to carry out building work. While it's advisable to have an informal conversation with your neighbours beforehand—this can often lead to a quicker and more agreeable response—the formal agreement must be in writing. Once the notice is served, your neighbours have 14 days to respond.

What Happens If There Is a Disagreement?

If your neighbours object to the work outlined in the Party Wall Notice, a Party Wall Award will be required. In this case, a surveyor will assess the boundary or party wall, working in coordination with the neighbouring surveyors. They will prepare supporting documents that detail how the work will proceed and ensure it is fair for both parties.

Your Rights and Responsibilities

Even if your neighbours disagree, they cannot legally prevent you from completing building work that complies with all relevant approvals and regulations. However, they can influence how and when the work is carried out to ensure minimal disruption. Once the Party Wall Agreement is in place and you have completed all other design and planning stages, you are free to begin construction.

Party Wall Agreements are an essential part of ensuring a smooth and legally compliant building process while maintaining good relations with your neighbours.