A Simple Guide for Customers: Understanding the Party Wall etc. Act 1996
If you’re planning a home extension, loft conversion, basement dig, or any building work near a boundary in London or the South East, you may need to comply with the Party Wall etc. Act 1996. This important legislation helps prevent disputes between neighbours by setting out clear procedures for notifying and agreeing to certain types of building work.
At Adkins Consultants, we regularly advise homeowners, developers, and property professionals across London, Kent, and the wider South East. This simple guide explains your responsibilities and how we can help make the process smooth and stress-free.
What Is the Party Wall etc. Act 1996?
The Party Wall etc. Act 1996 is a legal framework in England and Wales that governs certain types of building work that could affect neighbouring properties. It applies in situations such as:
- Alterations to an existing party wall, floor, or ceiling shared with another property
- Building a new wall at or near the boundary line
- Excavation within 3 or 6 metres of an adjoining building, depending on the depth of your foundations
These works are common during home extensions, loft conversions, and basement excavations, especially in densely built areas such as Greater London.
When Do You Need to Serve a Party Wall Notice?
If your planned works fall under the Act, you must serve a Party Wall Notice on all affected neighbours, known as adjoining owners, before the work starts.
Required notice periods:
- Two months before work begins on a party wall or party structure
- One month before any excavation or boundary wall construction
Notices must be accurate and legally compliant, which is why most homeowners appoint a qualified party wall surveyor—such as those at Adkins Consultants—to act on their behalf.
What Happens After the Notice Is Served?
Once you serve the notice, your neighbour can:
- Consent – They agree to the works, and you may proceed. However, we strongly recommend a Schedule of Condition to record the current state of their property.
- Dissent and appoint their own surveyor – A Party Wall Award will be required, prepared by both surveyors.
- Dissent but agree to use your surveyor – This means an Agreed Surveyor can handle the process more efficiently and cost-effectively.
The Party Wall Award is a legal document that sets out how the works will be carried out and includes protections for both parties.
Do You Always Need a Surveyor?
If your neighbour provides written consent, a formal Party Wall Award might not be necessary. However, involving an experienced party wall surveyor in London or the South East gives added protection and ensures the process is handled professionally.
What If You Don’t Follow the Act?
Failure to comply with the Party Wall Act can lead to serious consequences, including:
- Legal injunctions to stop work
- Claims for damages if your neighbour’s property is affected
- Delays in selling your home, as buyers will expect proper documentation
Avoiding the Act to save time or money often results in greater expense and conflict later.
How Adkins Consultants Can Help
At Adkins Consultants, we provide expert Party Wall surveying services across London and the South East, including Kent, Surrey, Sussex, and Essex. Our services include:
✔️ Free initial advice on whether the Act applies to your project
✔️ Preparing and serving Party Wall Notices
✔️ Acting as surveyor for Building Owners, Adjoining Owners, or as the Agreed Surveyor
✔️ Producing legally sound Party Wall Awards
✔️ Preparing Schedules of Condition
✔️ Supporting dispute resolution, quickly and professionally
Whether you’re a homeowner extending your property in South London or a developer excavating in East Kent, our team ensures compliance and peace of mind.
Contact Your Local Party Wall Experts
If you’re planning building work near a boundary in London or the South East, get in touch with Adkins Consultants for clear advice and reliable professional support under the Party Wall etc. Act 1996.
📞 Call us today David or Natalie on 01622 236500
📧 Email d.king@adkinsconsultants.com or n.hennessy@adkinsconsultants.com
🌐 Visit www.adkinsconsultants.com
