Faulkners Surveyors Biggleswade

If you’re planning on carrying out work on a shared wall or structure, you may need to enter into a party wall agreement with your neighbor. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take you through everything you need to know about party wall agreements, including when you need one, how to get one, and what it covers.

DO YOU NEED A PARTY WALL AGREEMENT IN biggleswade?

Are you planning on carrying out work on a shared wall or structure? Read our comprehensive guide to find out if you need a party wall agreement.

What is a Party Wall Agreement?

A party wall agreement, also known as a party wall award, is a legally binding agreement between two or more property owners who share a wall or structure. It sets out the rights and responsibilities of each party in relation to the wall or structure and any work that is being carried out on it.

Do You Need a Party Wall Agreement?

You may need a party wall agreement if you are planning on carrying out work on a wall or structure that is shared with another property, or if you are planning on excavating near a neighboring property. Examples of work that may require a party wall agreement include:

Building a new wall on the boundary between two properties
Removing or altering an existing party wall or structure
Excavating within three or six meters of a neighboring property, depending on the depth of the excavation

How to Get a Party Wall Agreement

If you need a party wall agreement, you must give your neighbor(s) notice in writing. This notice should include details of the work you are planning to carry out, the start date, and the likely duration. You should also include a statement explaining your neighbor’s rights under the Party Wall etc. Act 1996.

Your neighbor(s) then have 14 days to respond to your notice. If they agree to the work, you can proceed without the need for a party wall agreement. However, if they dissent or do not respond, you will need to appoint a party wall surveyor to prepare a party wall agreement.

What Does a Party Wall Agreement Cover?

A party wall agreement typically covers:

Details of the work to be carried out
A schedule of condition of the affected properties
Arrangements for access and working hours
Provision for the making good of any damage caused by the work
Arrangements for resolving any disputes that may arise

Advantages of a Party Wall Agreement

Entering into a party wall agreement has a number of advantages, including:

It can help to avoid disputes with your neighbors
It sets out clear responsibilities for each party
It ensures that any damage caused by the work is properly addressed
It can protect you from potential legal action by your neighbor

Conclusion

If you’re planning on carrying out work that involves a shared wall or structure, it’s important to consider whether you need a party wall agreement. This legal agreement can help ensure that the work is carried out safely and legally, while also protecting your interests and avoiding disputes with your neighbor. At Faulkners Surveyors in Biggleswade, we have extensive experience in party wall matters and can provide expert advice and assistance. Contact us today to find out more.