Introduction

The words ‘party wall’ can sound more complicated than they need to.

In simple terms, the Party Wall etc. Act provides a process for certain building work that may affect a shared wall, boundary or nearby neighbouring property in England and Wales.

It does not stop you carrying out work. Its purpose is to make sure neighbours are informed and that there is a clear process if concerns arise.

What counts as a party wall?

A party wall is often the wall shared between two attached homes.

The rules can also apply to certain boundary walls and to excavation close to a neighbouring building.

That means an extension may be covered even if you are not directly working on the wall between two houses.

What type of work may be covered?

Common examples include cutting into a shared wall to insert beams, rebuilding or altering a shared wall, building on or close to a boundary and excavating for foundations near a neighbouring property.

Not every renovation falls under the Act, and the exact position depends on the work being proposed.

Do you need to tell your neighbour?

If the work is covered, formal written notice normally needs to be given before it starts.

The required notice period depends on the type of work, so it is worth checking the process early.

Speaking to your neighbour informally before serving notice can also make the process feel much less confrontational.

What happens next?

Your neighbour may agree to the work.

If they do not agree, or do not respond within the required period, surveyors may need to prepare a Party Wall Award.

The award records how the work should be carried out and can include measures intended to protect both properties.

Final thoughts

A Party Wall Agreement is separate from planning permission and Building Regulations approval.

If you think your renovation may be covered, speak to a suitably qualified party wall surveyor before construction begins.