Everything you need to know about party wall agreements, notices, and working with Faulkners.
The Party Wall Act
What is the Party Wall Act, and does it apply to me?
The Party Wall etc. The 1996 Act is a UK law that governs construction work affecting shared walls, boundary structures, and excavations near neighbouring properties. It applies if you’re planning a loft conversion, rear extension, chimney breast removal, basement dig, or any structural work close to a shared wall or boundary. If your project could affect your neighbour’s property, the Act almost certainly applies.
What is a Party wall?
A party wall is any wall shared between two properties — typically the wall dividing a semi-detached or terraced house. It can also refer to a wall that sits on the boundary line between two plots, or a floor/ceiling structure dividing flats. Garden boundary walls and fence lines can also fall under the Act.
What work triggers the need for a party wall agreement?
Common triggers include: loft conversions involving the party wall; single- or double-storey rear extensions; removal of a chimney breast on a shared wall; basement or underpinning works; digging foundations or excavations within 3–6 metres of a neighbouring structure; and any structural alteration to or near a shared wall. If you’re unsure, contact Faulkners for a free initial consultation.
Party wall notices
What does a party wall surveyor actually do?
A party wall surveyor examines the proposed works, reviews plans, carries out a Schedule of Condition (a detailed record of the neighbouring property’s current state), prepares the Party Wall Award, and oversees that work is carried out correctly. If damage occurs, the surveyor helps determine liability and award compensation. At Faulkners, your dedicated surveyor will guide you through every step with plain, jargon-free communication.
Do I need my own surveyor, or can one surveyor act for both parties?
Both parties can agree to appoint one “Agreed Surveyor” to act impartially for both — this is often quicker and more cost-effective. Alternatively, each party can appoint their own surveyor, who, if they cannot agree, jointly appoints a third surveyor. Faulkners can act as the Agreed Surveyor or as your dedicated surveyor, depending on what suits your situation.
What is a Schedule Of Condition?
A Schedule of Condition is a photographic and written record of the state of a neighbouring property before any work begins. It documents existing cracks, defects, and finishes, providing a clear baseline. This protects both parties — if damage occurs during construction, the Schedule proves what was pre-existing and what was caused by the works.
Costs & timescales
Who pays for the party wall surveyor?
In most cases, the building owner (the person carrying out the work) pays the surveyor’s fees for both sides. This includes the cost of the neighbouring owner’s surveyor if they appoint one. It’s considered fair because the building owner is the party instigating the work. Faulkners is known for being cost-effective without compromising on quality or service.
How long does the party wall process take?
If your neighbour consents promptly, the process can be completed within a few weeks. If they dissent or don’t respond, you must allow the statutory notice period (one to two months, depending on work type), after which an award is prepared. Faulkner moves efficiently and communicates clearly throughout, helping avoid unnecessary delays to your project timeline.
What happens if I start work without serving a notice?
Starting work without following the correct process is unlawful under the Party Wall Act. Your neighbour can seek an injunction to halt the works, and a court may order you to remove what has been built or pay damages. You could also be required to cover the cost of both parties’ surveyors in any subsequent dispute. Instructing Faulkners at the outset avoids all of this risk.