Party Wall Guidance – Everything You Need to Know
Most homeowners have never even heard of the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 until they start a building project. That’s normal — but it’s also why so many disputes with neighbours come up unnecessarily.
What is a Party Wall?
A party wall is any wall or structure that sits on the boundary between two properties and is shared by both owners.
This can include:
- The wall separating two terraced or semi-detached houses.
- A garden wall that straddles the boundary line.
- Floors or ceilings between flats.
- Walls built up to (or astride) the boundary line.
If you’re planning works that affect one of these, you’re legally required to notify your neighbour(s) in advance under the Party Wall etc. Act 1996.
When does the Party Wall Act apply?
You need to serve a Party Wall Notice if you plan to:
- Build a new wall on or at the boundary.
- Cut into a party wall to insert beams, joists, or flashings.
- Demolish or rebuild a party wall.
- Raise, thicken, or underpin a shared wall.
- Excavate for foundations within 3–6 metres of a neighbour’s property (depending on depth).
- Carry out works to shared chimneys, floors, or boundary structures.
Why is it important?
The Act exists to:
- Protect both you and your neighbour from unnecessary disputes.
- Ensure your neighbour’s property remains structurally safe during your works.
- Provide a legal framework if there’s disagreement.
- Give you the right to access your neighbour’s land if needed (with notice).
Without serving notice, your project could face delays, legal disputes, or even court orders.
How does the process work?
The Party Wall process follows a clear legal framework designed to keep your project moving smoothly while protecting both you and your neighbour.
1. Serve Notice
You give your neighbour written notice (using our free template).
- 2 months’ notice for works to a party wall/structure.
- 1 month’s notice for excavations or new boundary walls.
2. Neighbour’s Response
Your neighbour can:
- Consent (sign the notice).
- Dissent (appoint a surveyor).
- Do nothing (after 14 days, this counts as dissent)
3. If there’s Dissent
- Each side can appoint a Party Wall Surveyor, OR
- Both can agree on a single surveyor (cheaper, quicker).
- The surveyor(s) will prepare a Party Wall Award – a legal document setting out how the works will proceed and protecting everyone’s interests.
Your Options with My Build My Way
We make it easy to handle this part of your project.
Option 1: DIY with our Free Template
We’ve drafted a detailed, legally compliant Party Wall Notice you can fill in and serve yourself.
Click here to download.
Option 2: Call in a Professional
If you’d rather not handle the paperwork (or if your neighbour dissents), we recommend:
Graham Kinnear
Chartered Building Engineer & Chartered Construction Manager
Graham Kinnear Property Consultant Ltd
Suite 12, 2 Chapel Place, Ramsgate, Kent CT11 9RY
📞 01843 583000
🌐 grahamkinnear.com
Graham and his team are specialists in party wall matters, and will take care of everything — from notices and schedules of condition to formal Awards.