Party Wall Awards

MikeTibbatts.co.uk > Home Owners > Party Wall Awards

Party Walls are those which you share with your neighbours, separating buildings belonging to different owners.

• Semi-detached and terraced houses share vertical walls with their neighbours;
• A floor separating two flats can also be considered to be a Party Wall.

Under The Party Wall Act 1996, the building owner has the right to carry out work to the party wall. However, the Act also requires the building owner to instruct a surveyor and notify his adjoining neighbour. This neighbour is allowed by law to appoint his own surveyor in order to protect his interests. In some cases both neighbours can appoint an agreed Surveyor who will act impartially for both parties.

You will need to serve a Notice on your neighbour if you are planning:

• An extension (ground floor, loft, basement extension);
• Damp proofing works (if these are to be carried out on a party wall)
• Some internal refurbishment (removing a chimney breast)
• Major structural alterations.

Appointed Surveyors draw up an agreement, a Party Wall Award, specifying the works to be carried out.

The RICS Consumer Guide gives more details of the legal rights and requirements when considering work to party walls. Please also refer to the Pyramus & Thisbe website, for more information.

Mike Tibbatts is a Member of Pyramus & Thisbe and is an experienced Party Wall Surveyor having acted for the Home Owners wishing to carry out the work and the adjoining Home Owners. I can help minimise delays working with your builders/architects to ensure that the correct notices are served on time and that accurate awards are made.