Faulkners Surveyors Plymouth

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.

Understanding the Scope of the Party Wall Act: Is Your Building Work Covered?

The Party Wall Act 1996 sets out the legal procedures for construction works carried out near or on the boundary of neighbouring properties in Plymouth. Property owners planning building works need to understand the scope of the act and whether their proposed works are covered to ensure they follow the correct procedures and avoid disputes with their neighbours. This article provides a comprehensive guide to help property owners understand the types of building works covered by the Party Wall Act.

Building Works Covered by the Party Wall Act

The Party Wall Act covers three types of building works, as outlined below.

Building on the Line of Junction

The Party Wall Act covers any construction work that involves building on or astride the boundary line between two properties in Plymouth. This includes works such as building a new wall, extending an existing wall, or excavating near the boundary line. Property owners must serve a party wall notice on their adjoining property owner at least two months before the work is due to begin. The notice should specify the nature and scope of the work and the proposed start date.

Excavation Near the Adjoining Property

The Party Wall Act also covers excavation works carried out within three meters of an adjoining property where the excavation is deeper than the adjoining property’s foundations. Property owners must serve notice on the adjoining owner at least one month before the work is due to begin. The notice should include details of the proposed excavation and its effects on the adjoining owner’s property.

Building a New Wall on One Owner’s Land

If a property owner wishes to build a new wall entirely on their own land, but close to or astride the boundary line, the Party Wall Act still requires them to serve notice on their adjoining property owner at least one month before the work is due to start. The notice should include details of the proposed wall’s location, design, and any other relevant information.

Advantages of Seeking Expert Advice

It is always advisable to seek expert advice if you are unsure whether your proposed building work falls under the Party Wall Act. Here are some of the advantages of working with Faulkners in Plymouth:

We have extensive knowledge and experience of the Party Wall Act and other relevant legislation.
We can provide you with a clear understanding of the legal requirements and procedures you need to follow.
We can help you prepare and serve the necessary party wall notices on your adjoining property owner.
We can provide impartial advice and mediation services to help you resolve any disputes with your adjoining property owner in Plymouth.

Conclusion

The Party Wall Act plays a vital role in protecting property owners’ interests during construction works. Property owners must understand whether their proposed building work falls under the act’s purview and follow the correct procedures to avoid disputes with their neighbors. With Faulkners in Plymouth, you can ensure that your interests are protected, and your construction process is smooth and hassle-free. Contact us today for expert advice and services.