You’ll need a party wall agreement if you’re planning on carrying out building work near a shared boundary. This includes:
- Building a new wall on the boundary 
- Cutting into an existing party wall 
- Extending a party wall beyond the boundary 
- Excavating near a party wall 
- Demolishing and rebuilding a party wall 
What Does a Party Wall Agreement Entail?
A party wall agreement typically includes the following:
- A description of the work that will be carried out 
- Details of the adjoining property/properties 
- The proposed start date of the work 
- Measures to be taken to protect the adjoining property/properties 
- A schedule of condition of the adjoining property/properties 
- A method statement outlining how the work will be carried out 
- Provisions for resolving disputes 
 
What Are the Advantages of a Party Wall Agreement?
There are several advantages to having a party wall agreement, including:
- It helps to prevent disputes between neighbours 
- It ensures that any building work is carried out safely and with minimal disruption 
- It provides a clear set of guidelines for both parties to follow 
- It protects both parties in the event of any damage to the adjoining property/properties 
 
To get a party wall agreement, you’ll need to follow these steps:
- Notify your neighbours in writing at least two months before the proposed start date of the work. This is known as a party wall notice. 
- Your neighbour can either agree to the proposed work or dissent. 
- If your neighbour dissents, you’ll need to appoint a party wall surveyor to prepare a party wall award. 
- Once the party wall award is agreed, you can begin the work. 
Conclusion
A party wall agreement is an important legal document that helps to prevent disputes between neighbours and ensures that any building work is carried out safely and with minimal disruption. If you’re planning on carrying out building work near a shared boundary, it’s essential that you understand when you need a party wall agreement, what it entails, and how to get one.
At Faulkners, our expert surveyors are on hand to provide advice and assistance with party wall agreements. Contact us today to find out more about our services.