Party Walls
In short
If you’re planning building work that affects a wall you share with a neighbour, or that’s close to your shared boundary, the Party Wall Act sets out rules you’ll need to follow — including giving your neighbour formal notice before work starts. Getting this right avoids disputes, delays, and costly mistakes. Call 08082747557 for a free initial assessment.
What the Party Wall Act covers
When building work, repairs or improvements are carried out on a property, that work can affect neighbours who share a wall or a boundary. The Party Wall etc. Act 1996 exists to minimise disputes in exactly this situation, by setting out a formal process property owners must follow before starting work that could affect a shared wall or nearby boundary — for example, building an extension, digging foundations near a boundary, or work directly to a shared wall itself.
Serving notice
If your work falls under the Act, you’re required to notify your neighbour before starting, giving them the chance to agree to the work, raise concerns, or formally object. If they object, an independent surveyor can be appointed to decide what work can go ahead and on what terms — including any conditions to protect their property and, where relevant, compensation for any damage caused.
Planning work near a shared wall or boundary? Call 08082747557 before you start.
How we can help
We advise on whether your planned work falls under the Party Wall Act in the first place, help you prepare and issue the correct notice if you’re the one doing the work, and advise you on how to respond if you’ve received a notice from a neighbour and aren’t sure whether to agree. If a disagreement has already developed into a wider dispute with your neighbour, see our guidance on boundary disputes and neighbour disputes.
Related Services
- Resolve a disagreement over a shared boundary Boundary Disputes
- Resolve an ongoing dispute with a neighbour Neighbour Disputes and Anti-Social Behaviour
- Get advice on a planning application Planning Law
- Get general advice on a housing dispute Housing Disputes