Party Wall Surveyor Duties: What You Often Fail to Notice
Whether you’re planning a loft conversion, basement dig, or rear extension, dealing with the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 is a crucial step in UK property development. Many homeowners think of the party wall surveyor as a mere intermediary, someone who shows up, writes a report, and disappears. But in reality, the duties of a […]
The Role of a Party Wall Surveyor in Basement Conversions
As homeowners increasingly look to expand living space without moving, basement conversions have become one of the most popular home improvement projects—especially in dense urban areas like London. But digging beneath your home isn’t just a matter of design and excavation; it’s also a legal and structural matter governed by the Party Wall etc. Act […]
How to Navigate Party Wall Disputes Smoothly and Legally
If you’re planning building work on a property that shares a boundary wall, fence, or floor with a neighbour, you might have to deal with a party wall. While these walls are essential for property boundaries and structural support, they can also become a source of conflict. Party wall disputes can quickly escalate, causing […]
Refusing to Accept an Agreed Surveyor: What It Means and What Happens Next
When neighbours undertake building work that affects a shared wall or boundary, the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 comes into play. One of the key elements of this process is the appointment of a party wall surveyor. In many cases, neighbours agree to use a single ‘agreed surveyor’ to save time and cost. However, […]
Common Renovation Works That Affect Party Walls
Renovating your home can be an exciting and rewarding experience, but when your property shares a party wall with a neighbor’s property, things can get a bit more complicated. A party wall is a wall that stands on the land of two or more owners and forms part of a building or separates buildings. […]
Understanding the Timescales for Party Wall Notices
Once you’ve decided on the construction work you want to do, the next step is to issue a Party Wall Notice. Below is a detailed timeline of the various stages, from issuing the notice to starting the work. 1. Issuing the Party Wall Notice The first step in the process is to formally […]
How to Handle Party Wall Issues in Brixton?
Brixton, with its vibrant community, rich culture, and beautiful mix of old and new architecture, has become a popular spot for homeowners looking to extend, renovate, or build. However, before you start construction, there’s an important legal aspect you must consider—party wall issues. If your project involves work close to or on a shared […]
Party Wall Act: Damage to Neighbour’s Property – What You Need to Know
When undertaking construction or renovation work on your property, especially if it involves shared or adjoining walls, it’s essential to understand your legal responsibilities under the Party Wall etc. Act 1996. This Act provides a framework for preventing and resolving disputes between neighbours when building work affects party walls, boundary walls, or excavations near […]
Gallows Brackets Supporting a Chimney: What You Need to Know
When it comes to property renovations or structural alterations, especially in older buildings, understanding the proper support for remaining structures is crucial. One such element commonly encountered in UK homes is the chimney breast. Removing a chimney breast can provide more space and modernize a room—but if done incorrectly, it can compromise the integrity […]
How to Invoke the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 – And Can Surveyors Determine That It Doesn’t Apply?
When planning building work that may affect a shared wall or structure, it’s crucial to understand the legal framework that governs such alterations in England and Wales: the Party Wall etc. Act 1996. The Act provides a clear path for homeowners to follow to avoid disputes with neighbours by ensuring that they are properly […]