Party Wall Notices, Agreements & Dispute Resolution
If you’re planning building works in Wokingham, such as an extension, loft conversion or structural alterations near a boundary, the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 may apply.
Wokingham has a high proportion of detached and semi-detached family homes, often with close side boundaries and newer extensions. As a result, party wall matters here commonly arise from boundary works and excavation, rather than dense terraced housing.
Faulkner Surveyors act as Party Wall Surveyors in Wokingham, helping homeowners comply with the Act, avoid disputes with neighbours, and proceed with confidence.
You are likely to need to serve a Party Wall Notice if your works involve:
Rear or side extensions close to the boundary
Works to a boundary wall or shared garden wall
Structural works that affect a neighbouring property’s foundations
Loft conversions where structural elements are close to the party wall line
These situations are common across RG40 and RG41 postcodes, particularly where properties have been extended or altered over time.
Unlike inner-London areas, party wall matters in Wokingham often involve:
Boundary proximity rather than shared internal walls
Neighbours concerned about foundation movement or drainage
Modern extensions built close to original property lines
Homeowners unfamiliar with party wall law due to lower housing density
This makes clear communication and correct procedure especially important to avoid unnecessary disputes.
Confirm whether the Act applies
Not all works require a notice. We advise clearly and honestly.
Serve a valid Party Wall Notice
Notices must be accurate and legally compliant to be effective.
Neighbour response period
Neighbours can consent, dissent, or appoint a surveyor.
Surveyor appointment (if required)
Surveyors act impartially under the Act, not as advocates.
Party Wall Award agreed
This sets out how works proceed and protects both properties.
Works commence with legal protection in place
We regularly act for both:
Building Owners planning works
Adjoining Owners concerned about potential impact
Our role is to apply the Act correctly, document risk, and prevent matters escalating unnecessarily.
Specialists in Party Wall matters only
Experience with Wokingham-style housing and boundary works
Practical, plain-English advice
Focus on preventing disputes, not creating them
Efficient handling to avoid delays to your build programme
Most party wall problems are caused by incorrect or late notices — both easily avoidable.
Works starting before notices are served
Builders incorrectly advising that the Act doesn’t apply
Boundary excavations overlooked
Neighbours raising concerns late due to lack of explanation
No schedule of condition recorded before works begin
Early advice almost always leads to smoother outcomes.
Often, yes. Many extensions in Wokingham are built close to boundaries, and foundation excavations commonly fall within the scope of the Party Wall Act.
Disputes are less common than in high-density areas, but they do occur — usually where notices are served late or neighbours are unclear about the works. Proper advice significantly reduces risk.
Where neighbours consent, matters can often be resolved within a few weeks. Disputes may take longer depending on the complexity of the works and neighbour responses.
They cannot stop lawful works, but they can delay them if the party wall process is not followed correctly.
Yes. We cover Wokingham and surrounding areas including Earley, Winnersh, Woodley, Finchampstead and Arborfield, as well as RG40 and RG41 postcodes.