If you’re planning on doing any building work on a property in London that shares a wall or boundary with a neighbouring property, you may need to enter into a Party Wall Agreement. This is a legal document that sets out the rights and obligations of both parties with regards to the work being done and how it will affect the shared structure.
In London, the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 governs party wall agreements, and it’s important to understand your rights and responsibilities before embarking on any building work that could potentially impact your neighbours.
What is a Party Wall Agreement?
A party wall agreement is a document that is designed to protect the interests of both property owners when one of them plans to carry out work that will affect the shared wall or boundary. This could include building a new extension, altering an existing structure, or carrying out structural repairs.
The agreement will typically include details such as the extent of the work that is to be carried out, how it will be done, and the timescale for completion. It will also set out the rights and responsibilities of both parties, including access arrangements, liability for any damage caused, and how disputes will be resolved.
Why are Party Wall Agreements important?
Party Wall Agreements are important because they help to prevent disputes between neighbours and ensure that any building work is carried out safely and to a high standard. By setting out the rights and responsibilities of both parties, they provide a framework for resolving any disputes that may arise during the course of the work.
If a party wall agreement is not in place, it can be difficult to resolve any disputes that may arise, and the work may be delayed or even halted altogether. This can be costly and stressful for both parties, and may even result in legal action being taken.
When do you need a Party Wall Agreement?
You will need a party wall agreement if you plan to carry out any building work that affects a shared wall or boundary. This can include:
Building a new wall that joins your property to a neighbouring property
Carrying out repairs to a shared wall or boundary
Building an extension that is within 3 metres of a neighbouring property
Excavating near a neighbouring property, which may affect the stability of their property
It’s important to note that you don’t need a party wall agreement for minor works that won’t affect the structural integrity of the shared wall or boundary. However, it’s always a good idea to speak to your neighbour and inform them of any work you plan to carry out, even if you don’t require a formal agreement.
How do you obtain a Party Wall Agreement?
To obtain a party wall agreement, you will need to serve a notice on your neighbour. This notice should include details of the work that you plan to carry out, how it will affect the shared wall or boundary, and the timescale for completion.
Your neighbour will then have the option to either consent to the work or appoint a surveyor to act on their behalf. If a surveyor is appointed, they will work with you to agree on the terms of the party wall agreement. If you are unable to reach an agreement, a third surveyor may be appointed to help resolve any disputes.
Conclusion
In London, party wall agreements are an important legal requirement when carrying out building work that affects a shared wall or boundary. They help to protect the interests of both parties and provide a framework for resolving any disputes that may arise.
If you’re planning to carry out any building work on your property, it’s always a good idea to speak to your neighbour and inform them of your plans. This can help to prevent any misunderstandings and ensure that the work is carried out smoothly and to a high standard.
