Part Wall FAQ’s
Below are some of the most frequently asked questions regarding party walls and procedures under the Party Wall etc. Act 1996, as well as guidance on the issues we most often help our clients with.
If your particular problem isn’t covered below, feel free to contact us for specific advice.
If your neighbour is undertaking work that falls under the Party Wall etc. Act 1996, they are legally required to serve you with a formal Party Wall Notice. If you haven’t received one, you should first speak to your neighbour to clarify the situation. If the issue remains unresolved, seeking advice from a qualified Party Wall Surveyor can help protect your property and rights.
Ideally, Party Wall Notices should be served before any notifiable work begins. If construction has already started, it’s important to act quickly by serving notice as soon as possible. A surveyor can advise on the best course of action and help regularise matters to minimise disputes and delays.
The Party Wall Act applies to certain types of building work, including work to shared walls or structures, excavations near neighbouring properties, and the construction of new walls on or near boundary lines. If you are unsure whether your project is covered, professional advice is recommended.
Some level of noise is expected during building work, but it should be kept within reasonable hours set by the local authority. Excessive or unreasonable noise may be addressed by speaking with your neighbour or contractor. If problems persist, your local council’s environmental health department may be able to assist.
In certain circumstances, the Party Wall Act allows temporary access to a neighbour’s land to carry out lawful works. However, this access must be reasonable, properly notified, and cause as little inconvenience as possible. Any damage must be made good.
A Party Wall Surveyor ensures that the requirements of the Act are followed correctly. They act impartially, protect your property interests, help prevent disputes, and prepare legally binding Party Wall Awards where required.
Generally, no. If a dispute has arisen and surveyors are appointed, work should not begin until a Party Wall Award is in place. Starting work early may lead to legal complications and potential enforcement action.
In most cases, the building owner (the person carrying out the work) is responsible for covering the reasonable costs of the Party Wall Surveyor(s). There can be exceptions, depending on the nature of the work and the circumstances.
If damage is caused by notifiable works, the building owner is usually responsible for repairs or compensation. A Schedule of Condition prepared before work starts helps identify and resolve damage claims fairly and efficiently.
If costs or compensation cannot be agreed, the matter can often be resolved through the Party Wall Award process. A surveyor can advise on enforcement options and the appropriate next steps.