Faulkners Surveyors bedworth

If you’re planning on carrying out building work near a shared boundary, it’s important to know about party wall agreements. In this article, we explain what party wall agreements are, when you need them, and how to get one. Contact Faulkners, expert surveyors based in Bedworth, for assistance.

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DO YOU NEED A PARTY WALL AGREEMENT IN bedworth?

In this comprehensive article, we’ll explain everything you need to know about party wall agreements, including when you need one, what it entails, and how to get one.

What is a Party Wall Agreement?

A party wall agreement, also known as a party wall award, is a legal document that sets out the rights and responsibilities of property owners when carrying out building work near a shared boundary. It’s used to prevent disputes between neighbours and ensure that any building work is carried out safely and with minimal disruption.

Do You Need a Party Wall Agreement?

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:
  1. 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.
  2. Your neighbour can either agree to the proposed work or dissent.
  3. If your neighbour dissents, you’ll need to appoint a party wall surveyor to prepare a party wall award.
  4. 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.