The purpose of a party wall agreement is to ensure that the work being done on one property does not negatively affect the structural integrity of the shared wall or boundary, and to ensure that both property owners are protected from potential damage or disputes. It’s a legal requirement to have a party wall agreement in place before undertaking certain types of construction work.
What Does the Process Involve?
The process of obtaining a party wall agreement typically involves the following steps:
Notice: The property owner planning the work must provide written notice to their neighbor(s) at least two months before the proposed start date.
Response: The neighbor(s) have 14 days to respond to the notice, either providing their consent or requesting that a party wall surveyor be appointed.
Party Wall Surveyor: If a surveyor is required, both property owners must agree on a party wall surveyor, who will act as an impartial third party and create the party wall agreement.
Agreement: Once the party wall surveyor has inspected the properties and drafted the agreement, both property owners must sign and agree to the terms.
Advantages of a Party Wall Agreement
Some of the benefits of having a party wall agreement in place include:
Clearly outlining the rights and responsibilities of each property owner
Reducing the risk of disputes and potential damage to the shared wall or boundary
Providing legal protection in the event of a dispute or damage
Minimizing delays and ensuring the work proceeds smoothly
Conclusion
If you’re planning on undertaking construction work that may affect a shared wall or boundary, it’s important to understand your legal obligations and the potential risks involved. A party wall agreement can help protect both property owners and ensure that the work proceeds smoothly. Contact a professional surveyor, like Faulkners in Spalding, to assist with the process and ensure that your project is in compliance with the law.
