A party wall agreement is required when a property owner plans to carry out building work that may affect a shared wall, boundary or structure. This may include:
Building a new wall on or adjacent to a shared boundary
Cutting into a party wall to install a beam
Removing or altering a chimney breast that is shared with a neighbouring property
Excavating near a neighbouring property’s foundations
If you are uncertain whether your building work requires a party wall agreement, it is important to seek professional advice from a surveyor.
Advantages of a Party Wall Agreement
Obtaining a party wall agreement can provide a range of benefits for property owners, including:
Clearly outlining the rights and responsibilities of each party
Minimizing the risk of disputes between property owners
Ensuring that the building work is carried out in a safe and legal manner
Protecting the value of the property
Obtaining a Party Wall Agreement
To obtain a party wall agreement, you must first serve a party wall notice to your neighbouring property owners. This notice should provide details of the proposed building work and give the neighbours the opportunity to consent to the work or request a party wall agreement. If the neighbours consent to the work, a party wall agreement may not be required. However, if the neighbours request a party wall agreement, you will need to appoint a surveyor to prepare and serve the agreement.
Conclusion
If you are planning to undertake building work that may affect a shared wall, boundary or structure, it is important to understand whether you need a party wall agreement. Obtaining a party wall agreement can provide a range of benefits and ensure that the building work is carried out in a safe and legal manner. At Faulkners, we provide expert guidance and support for property owners who are seeking party wall agreements. Contact us today to learn more about our services.
