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 Act is designed to protect the interests of both property owners in Aylesbury, providing a framework for resolving any disputes that may arise when work is carried out on or close to the party wall. In order to comply with the Act, property owners must serve a notice to their neighbour before any work is carried out. This notice must specify the nature of the work and the expected timeframe for completion, as well as any steps that are being taken to mitigate any potential damage to the neighbouring property in Aylesbury.
The notice must be served at least two months before any work is due to begin. If the neighbour does not give their consent, a dispute resolution process is initiated, during which a party wall surveyor will be appointed to resolve any issues that arise. The surveyor is an impartial third party who is tasked with ensuring that the interests of both parties are taken into account when making decisions about the work that is to be carried out.
There are two different types of notice that can be served under the Party Wall Act. The first is known as a ‘Party Wall Notice’, and is used when work is being carried out that affects a party wall that stands on the boundary between the two properties. The second is known as a ‘Notice of Excavation’, and is used when the work involves excavating close to the boundary of the two properties.
If you receive a notice from your neighbour under the Party Wall Act, it is important to respond promptly. Failure to respond within 14 days of receiving the notice will result in a ‘dispute’ being deemed to have arisen, which will trigger the dispute resolution process.
It is also important to be aware of the rights and responsibilities of both parties under the Party Wall Act. If you are planning work on your property that will affect a party wall or excavate near the boundary between your property and your neighbour’s, you are legally required to serve notice on your neighbour at least two months prior to starting work.
If you are the neighbour of a property owner who is planning work on their property, you have the right to agree or disagree with the proposed work. If you disagree, you are entitled to appoint a surveyor to act on your behalf during the dispute resolution process.
In conclusion, it is vital to be familiar with the Party Wall Act if you are a property owner in Aylesbury. By following the legislation, you can protect your interests and ensure that any issues or disputes that arise are resolved efficiently and fairly. If you have any questions about the Party Wall Act or are unsure about your rights and responsibilities, seek advice from a qualified surveyor who can provide you with the guidance and support that you need.
Party wall agreements
Local party wall surveyor
Party wall notice
Party wall disputes
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