Types of Work Covered by Party Wall Act
There are three types of distinct categories, which correspond to a different Section of the Party Wall Act.
Types of Buidling Work
Section 1: New Boundary Walls
- Involves the construction of a new wall, up to, but not beyond, the boundary. Referred to as a 1(5)wall. As long as all elements of the build like roof, gutter and fascia do not stick out, the wall can be built up to boundary without the neighbour’s consent.
- 1(2) wall is built 50/50 on the boundary, which does not require adjoining owner’s consent, which adjoining owners can build off with their own extension (unlike with a 1(5) wall).
Section 1 of the Party Wall Act ensures that owners follow the correct procedures when constructing new boundary walls to minimise neighbour disputes and protect the interests of all parties involved.
Section 2: Work to a Party Wall
Section 2 of The Act applies when the owner of the property plans to undertake particular types of work to a party wall that include:
- Building a new wall on or adjacent to the boundary line between the two properties.
- 2(2)(a): Underpinning a party wall for basement excavations but also for extensions where existing foundations need strengthening. Also applies to a raising of a party wall.
- 2(2)(b): Repairing, demolishing or rebuilding a party wall where repair is warranted.
- 2(2)(f): Cutting into, altering, or removing a party wall for steal beams (like in a loft conversion).
- 2(2)(g): Cutting away from a party wall, as seen in alterations to a chimney breast.
- 2(2)(l): Raising, demolishing and rebuilding a garden party wall to accommodate the extension flank wall.
- 2(2)(n): Exposing a party wall.
Section 3: Excavations
Section 3 outlines the steps and requirements that property owners must follow when carrying out excavations near the boundary line.
- Applies to excavations and foundations within 3 metres of a neighbouring property.
- Applies to excavations where the existing foundations are deeper than the neighbouring party.
- Proposed foundations must adhere to current Building Control requirements.
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- Mediating Disagreements
- Interest of All Parties Protected
- Neighbour Dispute Management
- Condition Reports & Building Surveys
It’s 100% recommended to serve a Party Wall Notice. Consult with our qualified surveyors and to determine whether any planned construction on a neighbouring wall or property requires an agreement.
Failing to obtain the necessary agreements often leads to disputes and legal issues with your neighbours that can result in delays and additional costs before you even get started.