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.
The Party Wall etc. Act 1996 is a UK law that sets out the rights and responsibilities of property owners when building work affects a shared wall. It provides a framework for resolving disputes between neighbours and ensures that building work is carried out safely and with minimal disruption.
Under the Act, the building owner must serve a notice on the adjoining owner, informing them of their proposed work. The adjoining owner has the option to agree to the work or dissent and appoint a surveyor to act on their behalf.
If you don’t want building work to go ahead at all, you may be wondering if you can use the Party Wall Act to stop it. The answer is no. The Party Wall Act does not give you the right to stop building work altogether.
However, if you dissent to the building work and appoint a surveyor in Gloucester, you can work with the building owner to come to an agreement about the work. The surveyor will ensure that the work is carried out safely and with minimal disruption to your property.
If you have concerns about the building work, you should discuss them with the building owner and the surveyor. You may be able to negotiate changes to the work that address your concerns and allow the work to go ahead.
Of course, the best way to deal with disputes is to prevent them from happening in the first place. If you don’t want building work to go ahead on a shared wall in Gloucester, it’s important to communicate your concerns with the building owner as early as possible. You may be able to negotiate changes to the work that address your concerns.
If you’re unsure about your rights and responsibilities as an adjoining owner, it’s important to seek professional advice. A surveyor can help you understand the Party Wall Act and ensure that your property rights are protected.
While the Party Wall Act does not give you the right to stop building work on a shared wall, it does provide a framework for resolving disputes and ensuring that building work in Gloucester is carried out safely and with minimal disruption. If you have concerns about building work, it’s important to communicate them with the building owner and seek professional advice. By taking the right steps, you can protect your property rights and avoid costly legal battles.
Party wall agreements
Local party wall surveyor
Party wall notice
Party wall disputes
Site links