Building Works & The Party Wall Act 1996

“It’s just a wall… what’s the big deal?”

If you’ve got building work planned, perhaps an extension, a loft conversion, or a basement dig, you might think, “It’s my property; I can do what I want!” Well, not quite. If your work involves a party wall, the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 applies.

Failing to follow it properly can lead to delays, disputes, or worse, legal action.

We get it. You don’t want extra paperwork, and you’re hoping your neighbour will just nod along. But the Act exists for a reason. It ensures that everyone’s interests are protected. It’s not about stopping your project but making sure it is carried out fairly and safely.

The Basics: What Does the Party Wall Act Cover?

The Act applies when you plan to:

• Build on or at the boundary with your neighbour
• Work on an existing party wall, such as inserting beams or damp-proofing
• Excavate within three metres, or sometimes six metres, of a neighbouring structure

It doesn’t cover minor works like drilling into the wall to put up shelves or replastering, so there is no need to tell your neighbour about your new kitchen tiles.

What You Need to Do

As a Building Owner, you must:

• Serve a Notice at least two months before party wall work starts and one month for excavation work.
• Get Consent or Dissent. If your neighbour agrees in writing, great. If not, or they ignore you, they are deemed to dissent.
• Appoint a Surveyor. This is where things can get interesting.

Why You Need a Party Wall Surveyor

You are legally required to follow due process. If your neighbour dissents, a Party Wall Award must be prepared by an experienced surveyor. Not all surveyors are created equal. The title “Party Wall Surveyor” isn’t legally protected, meaning anyone can claim to be one. This is why you should always look for MIPWS, a Member of the Institute of Party Wall Surveyors. This ensures they are properly trained and regulated.

At Bressummer ARK Ltd, we are Chartered Surveyors and MIPWS-accredited. We don’t just know the Act, we apply it practically and fairly to keep your project moving without unnecessary delays or disputes.

The Cost of Getting It Right or Wrong

Many people think Party Wall Surveyors cost a fortune. In reality, it doesn’t have to be expensive, but going for the cheapest option can backfire. A “bargain” surveyor can lead to poor drafting of Awards, disputes, or costly legal headaches.

Our fees for Party Wall services are charged on an hourly rate between £150 and £200 depending on geographic location.

Some surveyors charge less but might cut corners. Others charge more, but high cost doesn’t always mean high quality. You want someone experienced, impartial, and MIPWS-accredited, like us.

Common Questions From Building Owners

Q: “My neighbour is fine with the work. Do I still need a Party Wall Agreement?”

A: Yes. Even if they are friendly now, circumstances change. A formal agreement protects you both if issues arise.

Q: “What if my neighbour ignores my Party Wall Notice?”

A: After 14 days, it is assumed they dissent, and you must appoint a Party Wall Surveyor.

Q: “Can I use my own builder to do the survey?”

A: No. There is a conflict of interest. A Party Wall Surveyor must be independent.

How Bressummer ARK Ltd. Can Help

At Bressummer ARK Ltd, we serve Notices on your behalf, act as your Party Wall Surveyor, and prepare detailed Party Wall Awards to avoid disputes.

We make the process smooth, fair, and legally compliant so you can focus on your build.