Party Wall Services London | Expert RICS Chartered Surveyors
Understanding the Party Wall Act 1996
The Basics of Party Wall
The 'party wall' is a term that often confuses property owners. A party wall is a shared wall between two adjoining properties, often seen in semi-detached and terrace homes, under the Party Wall, etc. Act 1996 in England and Wales, homeowners intending to undertake work that might affect this shared wall must notify the adjoining owner. This is where party wall services in London can help.
The Role of the Party Wall Surveyor
A party wall surveyor is a chartered professional who specialises in resolving disputes between the building owner and the adjoining owner. They have a wealth of knowledge and expertise in party wall legislation and can guide both parties through the process, from serving a party wall notice to issuing a party wall award.
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Essential Party Wall Matters in London
The Importance of a Party Wall Notice
As a building owner in London, if you plan to undertake work that falls within the scope of the Party Wall etc. Act, you need to serve a party wall notice to your neighbour. The notice should be given at least two months before you start work, detailing the proposed work. Failing to do this could lead to unnecessary inconvenience and disputes.
Party Wall Award: What is It and Why It's Crucial
A party wall award is a legal document prepared by the party wall surveyor(s) outlining the work to be carried out, how and when it should be done, and any protective measures required to prevent damage. Without a party wall award, you risk causing damage to the neighbouring property that could lead to legal repercussions.
The Role of the Building Owner and Adjoining Owner
Role | Building Owner | Adjoining Owner |
Responsibilities | Propose and plan work that could impact the party wall. Serve a party wall notice to the adjoining owner(s) detailing the proposed work, at least two months before work commences. | Respond to the party wall notice within 14 days of receipt. They can consent or dissent. |
Rights | Can undertake work on the party wall provided they comply with the Party Wall etc Act 1996 and have served a valid party wall notice. | Can dissent to the notice and trigger the dispute resolution process, requiring the appointment of one or more party wall surveyors. |
Potential Issues | If they fail to serve a valid notice or commence work without consent or a party wall award, they may face legal action from the adjoining owner. | If they fail to respond to a notice within 14 days, it's considered dissent and may lead to a more costly dispute resolution process. |
Surveyor's Role | If a dispute arises, they can appoint their own surveyor or agree with the adjoining owner to use an 'agreed surveyor'. | They also have the right to appoint their own surveyor or agree to an 'agreed surveyor'. Their surveyor will ensure their interests are protected in the party wall award. |
How to Serve a Party Wall Notice
Serving a party wall notice can be complex. As a building owner, you must provide all relevant information and advice to the adjoining owner about your proposed work. If unsure, professional advice from an RICS-registered party wall surveyor can ensure you meet all legal obligations.
What to Do When You Need a Party Wall Surveyor
If the adjoining owner dissents or fails to respond to the party wall notice within 14 days, you'll need a party wall surveyor. In London, party wall surveyors are readily available to help. Look for RICS Chartered Surveyors or Faculty of Party Wall Surveyors members for reliable services.
Undertaking a Party Wall Survey in London
Party Wall Surveyors in London: Expert Advice and Service
From cutting into a party wall to starting work within 3 metres of a neighbouring property, a party wall surveyor in London can provide the expert party wall advice you need. They can work on residential and commercial properties, ensuring compliance with the Act.
Schedule of Condition: What It Is and Why It Matters
A schedule of condition is a detailed record of the neighbouring property’s condition before work begins. It is essential as it can help resolve disputes if the adjoining owner claims that your work has caused damage to their property.
Appointing a Party Wall Surveyor: Key Considerations
RICS and the Faculty of Party Wall Surveyors
When appointing a surveyor, look for accreditation from the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) or the Faculty of Party Wall Surveyors. These bodies ensure that their members maintain the highest standards of professional competence.
The Agreed Surveyor: One Party Wall Surveyor for Both Parties
Where both the building owner and the adjoining owner agree, they can appoint one party wall surveyor to act for both parties. This 'agreed surveyor' can save time and costs but must act impartially.
The Consequences of Not Following the Party Wall Act
The Role of the Third Surveyor
A third surveyor can be called upon if the appointed surveyor cannot resolve a dispute. Their decision is final and binding.
What to Do If You're Not Happy with the Service
If you're unhappy with the service, seek further advice or appoint a new surveyor. The RICS can provide guidance.
Party Wall Services in London | Harding Chartered Surveyors
Navigating the intricacies of the Party Wall etc Act can be daunting for property owners in London. The legislation is complex, and understanding the responsibilities and rights of the building owner and the neighbour can be challenging. This becomes particularly relevant when dealing with a wall shared by two properties.
If you need party wall advice in London or are having issues with a neighbour's building work, then get in touch with Harding Chartered Surveyors, we are a team of specialist Party Wall Surveyors, and they bring their wealth of experience and expertise to guide you through the process, ensuring you are fully compliant with the Act and helping to avoid potential disputes.
Whether you're planning to undertake work covered by the Party Wall etc Act or a neighbour concerned about the potential impact on your property, Harding Chartered Surveyors can provide the professional advice and assistance you need.
Feel free to contact us for any further queries or to schedule a consultation. We're here to make the process as smooth and stress-free as possible, helping you navigate the Party Wall, Act, with confidence and peace of mind.
Party Wall Notices and Party Wall Awards Questions
- What does a party wall surveyor do? A party wall surveyor provides advice on party wall matters, serves notices, prepares a schedule of condition, and issues a party wall award.
- What is a party wall award? A party wall award is a legal document outlining the work to be carried out, how and when it should be done and any protective measures required.
- When do I need to appoint a party wall surveyor? If your neighbour dissents to your party wall notice or fails to respond within 14 days, you must appoint a party wall surveyor.
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With our professional help, you can simplify the process of altering a party wall while complying with the law and minimising the risk of disputes and costly setbacks. We can help leaseholders, homeowners, landlords and investors save time, money and effort, and we always provide free quotes upfront.
Party Wall Surveyors help prevent and resolve any disputes arising from changes you plan to make to your property that could affect theirs. This includes party walls, shared boundaries and excavation work within 3-6 metres of their property. With our help, you can improve your home and increase its value, stress-free. Harding Chartered Surveyors are specialist Party Wall surveyors, please contact us today to find out more about our services or get some advice.