Faulkners Surveyors Fareham

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.

When Do You Need a Party Wall Surveyor? An In-Depth Guide

As a property owner, you might have heard of the term ‘Party Wall’ but are unsure of what it means and when you need to appoint a party wall surveyor. In this article, we will delve deep into this topic and provide you with a comprehensive guide on when you need a party wall surveyor.

What is a Party Wall?

A Party Wall is a wall or structure shared by two adjoining properties. It may include a boundary wall or a wall that is part of one property, but is used by the other property. A Party Wall is a common feature in semi-detached houses in Fareham or terraced houses.

When Do You Need a Party Wall Surveyor?

There are three instances when you need to appoint a party wall surveyor:

Building work that affects a shared wall – If you plan to undertake building work that involves a shared wall, you will need to serve a Party Wall Notice to your neighbour. This notice will provide your neighbour with the details of your proposed work and request their permission. If your neighbour does not give consent, you will need to appoint a party wall surveyor to prepare a Party Wall Agreement. The Party Wall Agreement outlines the rights and obligations of both parties and sets out the conditions for the building work.
Excavation work near a shared wall – If you plan to undertake excavation work near a shared wall, you will need to serve a Party Wall Notice to your neighbour. This notice will provide your neighbour with the details of your proposed work and request their permission. If your neighbour does not give consent, you will need to appoint a party wall surveyor to prepare a Party Wall Agreement. The Party Wall Agreement outlines the rights and obligations of both parties and sets out the conditions for the excavation work.
Repairs to a shared wall – If you plan to undertake repairs to a shared wall, you will need to serve a Party Wall Notice to your neighbour. This notice will provide your neighbour with the details of your proposed work and request their permission. If your neighbour does not give consent, you will need to appoint a party wall surveyor to prepare a Party Wall Award. The Party Wall Award outlines the rights and obligations of both parties and sets out the conditions for the repair work.

Advantages of Appointing a Party Wall Surveyor

Provides clarity – Appointing a party wall surveyor provides clarity on the rights and obligations of both parties.
Reduces disputes – Appointing a party wall surveyor can help to reduce disputes between neighbours.
Ensures compliance – Appointing a party wall surveyor ensures that you comply with the Party Wall etc. Act 1996.

Conclusion

Appointing a party wall surveyor is an essential requirement when you plan to undertake building work, excavation work in Fareham, or repairs that affect a shared wall. It provides clarity, reduces disputes and ensures compliance with the Party Wall etc. Act 1996. If you require the services of a party wall surveyor, contact Faulkners, the leading party wall surveyor in Fareham. We have extensive experience in dealing with Party Wall matters and can provide you with expert advice and guidance in Fareham.