Removing A
Chimney
Breast
Party Wall Surveyor Experts
Are you planning on removing a chimney breast? You may be wondering whether you need to obtain a party wall agreement.
The short answer is that it depends on your specific circumstances. In this article, we’ll delve into the details of party wall agreements and outline whether or not you need one for your boundary line extension project.
Do I Need a party wall agreement if I am removing a chimney breast?
If you’re planning on removing a chimney from your property, you might be wondering whether you need a party wall agreement. In this guide, we’ll explain what a party wall act is, when you need one, and how to go about getting one.
What is a Party Wall Agreement?
A party wall agreement is a legal agreement between two or more property owners who share a wall, fence, or other boundary.
It sets out the rights and responsibilities of each owner in relation to the shared structure.
The agreement is designed to prevent disputes arising from works carried out to the shared structure, including damage to the structure, noise, and inconvenience.
When Do You Need a Party Wall Agreement for Chimney Removal?
- Your chimney is on a party wall (i.e. a wall that is shared with a neighbouring property)
- Your chimney is within 3 meters of a neighbouring property, and you need to excavate deeper than their foundations to remove it
How to Get a Party Wall Agreement?
The first step in getting a party wall agreement is to notify your neighbours of your intention to carry out the works.
You should do this in writing, using a Party Wall Notice, at least two months before you plan to start work.
The notice should include a detailed description of the works you plan to carry out, the start date, and the likely duration of the works.
Your neighbours then have 14 days to respond.
If they consent to the works, you can proceed without the need for a party wall agreement.
However, if they object or do not respond, you will need to appoint a surveyor to draw up a party wall agreement.
Benefits of a Party Wall Agreement
- Protects your property from potential damage during the works
- Avoids disputes with your neighbours
- Provides a clear framework for carrying out the works
If you are looking at the removal of a chimney. You will need ensure you have planning permission that pass building regulations. The size of the chimney and the way the chimney stack removal is done is vital.
You need to ensure you have advice from a structural engineer and building control will advise you of the best way to remove a chimney stack.
A party wall notice covers both parties should any structural damage occur. A chimney breast is a vital structural part of a home. You will need to demonstrate to all parties that you are following UK building regulations.
You MUST ensure the structural work is done AFTER a party wall act has been issued. You need to ensure that things such as scaffolding, demolition and roofing, ventilation and plumbing are covered to ensure your neighbours home isn’t damaged.
You need to consider the remaining hole, roof level and roof line.
You have to ensure structural support is installed. If you have a listed building or in a conservation area you need to have a completion certificate to include things such as a steel beam. For removal of a chimney stack or part of the chimney you need to ensure your adjoining owner is aware of what is happening. A party wall agreement helps to avoid disputes.
Concerns over your neighbours living room, heating and their fireplace and loft are all valid. You need to ensure the roof structure is not compromised.
For chimney breast removal you need to ensure the building control officer at the local authority has all relevant paperwork. Consider with such a large removal happening you could be liable for repairs on your neighbours flooring, drywall and alterations.
This type of job can cause roof leaks and damage to the outside wall. Old brick can be damaged also.
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Conclusion
If you’re planning on removing a chimney from your property, it’s important to consider whether you need a party wall agreement.
If you share a party wall with a neighbour, or your chimney is close to their property, you will likely need an agreement to protect their property and avoid disputes.
Faulkner Surveyors can help you navigate the process and ensure that your works are carried out legally and safely.
Contact Faulkner Surveyors today for expert advice on party wall agreements and other surveying services.