If you’re planning to undertake construction work on a shared boundary with your neighbour, you might need a party wall agreement.
It’s a legal document that outlines the responsibilities and rights of both parties involved in the construction process.
As a property owner, you might have heard of a party wall agreement but may not be fully aware of what it entails or whether you need one. A party wall is a shared wall between two adjoining properties, and a party wall agreement is a legal agreement between the owners of these properties regarding the shared wall.
In this article, we’ll dive deep into what a party wall agreement is, why you might need one, and how to get one in place.
A party wall agreement is a legal document that outlines the rights and responsibilities of property owners who share a wall or boundary. This agreement covers the construction, repair, and maintenance of the wall, as well as any potential damage that may occur during the works.
The agreement is intended to protect the interests of all parties involved and to minimize any potential disputes that may arise as a result of construction work on the shared wall or boundary.
If you’re planning to carry out any work on a shared wall or boundary, a party wall agreement is essential. Without it, you risk legal disputes with your neighbor, which can be both costly and time-consuming.
A party wall agreement can provide you with the following advantages:
How to Get a Party Wall Agreement in Place
If you’re planning to carry out any work on a shared wall or boundary, you’ll need to follow the procedures set out in the Party Wall etc. Act 1996. This involves:
Serving notice to your neighbour: You’ll need to give written notice to your neighbor, detailing the proposed works and their likely start date. You’ll also need to provide plans and drawings of the works.
Your neighbour’s response: Your neighbor will have 14 days to respond to your notice. If they agree to the works, you can proceed with the party wall agreement. If they disagree, you’ll need to appoint a surveyor to prepare the agreement.
Appointing a surveyor: If you and your neighbour cannot agree on the party wall agreement, you’ll need to appoint a surveyor to prepare the agreement on your behalf. Your neighbor will also need to appoint their own surveyor, and the two surveyors will work together to prepare the agreement.
In summary, a party wall agreement is essential if you’re planning to carry out any work on a shared wall or boundary. It can provide you with peace of mind, protect your property from potential damage, and minimize the risk of legal disputes with your neighbor.
At Faulkners in Beckenham, we offer a range of surveying services, including party wall agreements. Our experienced team can guide you through the process and ensure that all parties involved are protected. Contact us today to learn more.
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