Faulkners Surveyors Exeter

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.

Do Friendly Neighbors Need to Follow the Party Wall Act?

If you are planning on carrying out construction work that affects a shared boundary in Exeter, you may wonder if you need to follow the party wall act process if you get on well with your neighbour. While it’s tempting to skip the process if you have a good relationship with your neighbour in Exeter, it’s important to follow the legal requirements to protect both parties involved. In this article, Faulkners, a surveying firm in Exeter, will explain the legal requirements and potential consequences of not following the party wall act process.

What is the Party Wall Act?

The party wall act is a legal requirement that ensures that neighbouring properties are protected during construction work that affects a shared boundary. The party wall act applies to a range of construction work, including:

Building a new wall on or adjacent to the boundary
Cutting into a party wall to insert a beam
Excavating within 3-6 meters of a neighbouring property’s foundation

Even if you get on well with your neighbor, it’s important to follow the party wall act to avoid any potential disputes or legal issues that may arise in the future.

What Happens if You Don’t Follow the Party Wall Act?

If you fail to follow the party wall act, you risk facing legal consequences and potential damage to the neighbouring property. The neighbour may take legal action against you for damages and you may have to pay for any repairs or compensation. It’s important to note that even if your neighbour gives you verbal consent, you still need to follow the party wall act process to protect both parties involved.

Advantages of Following the Party Wall Act

Following the party wall act process can provide several advantages, including:

Protection of your rights and responsibilities during the construction work
Prevention of potential disputes or legal issues with your neighbour
Ensuring compliance with the party wall act
Expert guidance throughout the party wall process

Conclusion

In conclusion, it’s important to follow the party wall act process when carrying out construction work that affects a shared boundary, regardless of your relationship with your neighbour. Failure to do so can result in legal consequences and potential damage to the neighbouring property. If you require assistance with the party wall act process, contact Faulkners, a surveying firm in Exeter, for expert guidance and assistance.