Party Wall Awards

The Party Wall Act came into force on 1st July 1997 and applies throughout England and Wales. The Act provides a framework for preventing or resolving disputes in relation to party walls, party structures, boundary walls and excavations near neighbouring buildings. Anyone intending to carry out work of the kinds described in the Act must give Adjoining Owners notice of their intentions.

Where the intended work is to an existing party wall a notice must be given even where the work will not extend beyond the centre line of a party wall. It is often helpful in understanding the principles of the Act if owners think of themselves as joint owners of the whole of a party wall rather than the sole owner of half or part of it.

Adjoining Owners can agree with the Building Owner's proposals or reach agreement with the Building Owner on changes in the way the works are to be carried out, in their timing and manner. Where a dispute arises in relation to a new party wall or party fence wall under section 1, and where there is no written consent by the Adjoining Owner within fourteen days to a notice served in relation to an existing structure, the Act provides for the matter to be resolved by a surveyor or surveyors in a procedure for the resolution of disputes.

Various work that is going to be carried out directly to an existing party wall or party structure.

If you are unsure whether the Act applies to the work you are planning, or wish for us to act as your Party Wall Surveyor, contact us.