Question 1

What is a Party Wall?

Accepted Answer

A party wall is a wall that stands on the land of two (or more) owners and forms part of a building, or a wall that stands on one owner's land but is used by two (or more) owners to separate their buildings.

Question 2

What Work is Covered by the Party Wall Act?

Accepted Answer

The Act covers three types of work:
 • Work on an existing party wall or party structure.
 • Building a new wall at the boundary of two properties.
 • Excavation work near neighbouring buildings or structures.

Question 3

Do I Need to Serve a Notice for Minor Work?

Accepted Answer

Not all work on a party wall requires a notice. Minor work like drilling into the wall to fix shelves or replastering usually does not require notice. However, more significant work like cutting into the wall, removing a chimney breast, or underpinning the wall does require notice.

Question 4

How Much Notice Must I Give My Neighbour?

Accepted Answer

You must provide:
 • Two months’ notice for work on a party wall or at the boundary.
 • One month’s notice for excavation work.

Question 5

What Happens If My Neighbour Ignores the Notice?

Accepted Answer

If the adjoining owner does not respond within 14 days, they are considered to be in dispute. You will then need to appoint a surveyor to prepare a Party Wall Award.

Question 6

What is a Party Wall Award?

Accepted Answer

A Party Wall Award is a legal document prepared by a surveyor (or surveyors) that outlines the work to be done, how it will be carried out, and provides a schedule of condition of the adjoining property. It ensures that the work is carried out without causing unnecessary inconvenience and resolves any disputes that arise.

Question 7

Who Pays for the Surveyor?

Accepted Answer

Generally, the building owner proposing the work pays the surveyor's fees. However, costs can be shared if both parties agree.

Question 8

Can I Start Work Without Serving Notice?

Accepted Answer

No, starting work without serving the appropriate notice can lead to legal action and you may be forced to stop work and address any issues that arise.

Question 9

What If I Need Access to My Neighbour's Property?

Accepted Answer

The Act provides the right to access the adjoining owner’s property to carry out necessary work, provided that proper notice has been given and the work is covered by the Act.

Question 10

What Happens If Damage Occurs?

Accepted Answer

The building owner is responsible for repairing any damage caused by the work. If there is a dispute over the damage, the surveyors will determine the extent of the damage and the necessary repairs.

Question 11

Do I Need a Party Wall Agreement for a Loft Conversion?

Accepted Answer

Yes, if the work involves cutting into the party wall, for example, to insert steel beams, you will need to serve a notice and obtain a Party Wall Agreement.

Question 12

Can I Object to My Neighbour's Work?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can object to the work. If you do not consent, both parties will need to appoint surveyors to resolve the dispute and ensure that the work proceeds in a manner that minimizes inconvenience and risk.

Question 13

How Long is a Party Wall Award Valid?

Accepted Answer

A Party Wall Award does not expire, but the work must commence within 12 months of the award being agreed upon.

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