You will need a party wall agreement if you are planning to carry out any 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
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
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
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 will 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.
In 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 are planning to carry out any building work near a shared boundary, it is 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 available to provide guidance and assistance with party wall agreements. Contact us today to learn more about our services.
