What is the party wall act?
The Party Wall etc. Act 1996 sets out the legal process for notifying and consulting neighbouring property owners when building work might affect a shared wall, boundary line or nearby foundations. It provides a clear structure that helps both sides understand what is being proposed and how any risks will be managed. If you are planning an extension, loft conversion, basement excavation or any kind of structural alteration, it is important to know how the Party Wall Act works. By following the correct steps and getting early advice from a qualified Party Wall Surveyor, you can avoid disputes, meet UK building requirements and keep your project moving forward without unnecessary delays.
When does the Party Wall Act Apply?
If your project includes any of the situations below, the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 is likely to apply and you may need to serve a Party Wall Notice to your neighbours.
1. Work to a Shared Wall or Structure
This includes any construction that affects a party wall or separating structure. Typical examples are cutting into a party wall, installing steel beams, removing chimney breasts, or making changes to floors and ceilings in flats. These types of structural works almost always require formal notification under the Act.
2. Building a New Wall on or Up to the Boundary Line
If you are planning an extension, garden outbuilding or any structure that sits on, or very close to, the legal boundary, this is considered notifiable work. New boundary walls are one of the most common reasons homeowners need to follow the Party Wall Act process.
3. Excavating Near a Neighbour’s Foundations
Excavation work carried out within 3 to 6 metres of a neighbouring property may affect its foundations. Projects such as extensions, drainage works and basements often fall into this category and usually require a Party Wall Notice and a Schedule of Condition.
When any of these circumstances apply, the homeowner starting the work becomes the Building Owner and must formally notify all Adjoining Owners before construction begins. This ensures the work is carried out safely and in line with UK building regulations.
How the Process Works
1. Serving Notice
A Party Wall Notice must be issued to all Adjoining Owners. This is usually prepared by a Party Wall Surveyor to ensure the details comply with the Act.
2. The Neighbour’s Response
Neighbours can either consent to the works or dissent.
If they dissent, they can:
- Use the Building Owner’s Surveyor as an Agreed Surveyor, or
- Appoint their own Surveyor
3. The Party Wall Award
If Surveyor(s) are appointed, they will inspect, record the neighbour’s property condition and issue a Party Wall Award.
Key Things Homeowners Should Know
- The Act is an enabling process—its purpose is to allow work to proceed while protecting neighbours’ property.
- Timescales vary. Allow around 2–3 months for a typical residential project.
- Planning Permission is separate and deals with design, not structural impact.
- Early advice helps—a Surveyor can flag issues, explain likely costs, and guide strategy.
- Good communication matters; speaking to neighbours before formal notices can prevent misunderstandings.
Who We Are…
At CDJM Architects, we help clients identify early whether their project falls under the Party Wall Act and ensure that the process is managed smoothly alongside the design and construction stages.
If you’re planning building work and need guidance on requirements, our team is here to help.