Faulkners Surveyors Peterborough

If you’re planning to undertake construction work on a shared boundary in Peterborough 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.

Peterborough

DO YOU NEED A PARTY WALL AGREEMENT IN PETERBOROUGH?

The party wall agreement protects both you and your neighbour’s interests and helps prevent disputes that could arise during the construction process.
In this article, we’ll discuss party wall agreements in detail and determine whether you need one.

What is a Party Wall Agreement?

 
A party wall agreement is a legal document that outlines the responsibilities and rights of the property owners when they plan to undertake construction work on a shared boundary.
 
This agreement covers everything from the type of work being done, working hours, access, and procedures to resolve any disputes that may arise during the construction process.
 

Do You Need a Party Wall Agreement?

In general, you need a party wall agreement if you’re planning to undertake construction work in peterborough on a shared boundary with your neighbour. However, not all construction work requires a party wall agreement.
 
Here are some examples of when you need one:
  • If you plan to undertake any work on an existing wall that you share with your neighbour.
  • If you’re planning to build a new wall on the boundary line.
  • If you plan to excavate or underpin the existing wall.
 

How Do You Obtain a Party Wall Agreement?

The first step is to serve a party wall notice  at least 8 weeks before the planned start of the construction work. The notice should provide details of the proposed work, including drawings, and a request for a party wall agreement.

If your neighbor(s) consent to the proposed work, you can proceed without the need for a party wall agreement. However, if they do not consent, a party wall surveyor will need to be appointed to prepare a party wall award.

What Does a Party Wall Surveyor Do?

A party wall surveyor is an independent professional who is appointed to prepare a party wall award. The surveyor’s role is to:

    Inspect the affected properties to determine the condition before the construction work begins.
    Prepare a schedule of condition report.
    Prepare a party wall award that sets out the rights and responsibilities of each party, and the procedures to be followed during and after the construction work.
    Resolve any disputes that may arise during the construction work.

 
If you’re planning to undertake construction work on a shared boundary in Peterborough, it’s important to consider whether you need a party wall agreement.
 
In most cases, it’s advisable to have one in place to protect both you and your neighbour’s interests and prevent any disputes for your property  that could arise during the construction process.
 
At Faulkners Peterborough, our experienced surveyors can help you understand party wall agreements and guide you through the process.