One of the legal hoops you may have to jump through if you’re planning an extension or loft conversion, party wall agreements don’t have to be a total headache. But do you need one? Here is our quick guide.
First of all, what is a party wall agreement?
It’s essentially your neighbours agreeing – or not – to your building work, as it may affect their property.
The agreement must be done in writing and well in advance of the building work commencing. You can use a party wall surveyor to help you in this process, depending on how complicated your plans are.
There are two main reasons you’ll need a Party Wall Agreement for. If:
- you share a wall with your neighbour and the building work will affect that wall; or
- you are digging foundations within 3m or 6m of your boundary with them.
Just like throughout your entire design and build process, communication with your neighbours over your party wall plans is best done with zeal! A good relationship can make everything a lot smoother.
We recommend that you:
- Tell your neighbours as early as possible about your works, to give them a chance to air any grievances before it comes to the party wall agreement. You have to give them at least 2 months notice, and then works must start within 1 year.
- Make it as easy as possible; use the government templates to give them a package including your plans and lots of detail of the proposed works, the Party Wall Notice, a positive acknowledgement, and a negative acknowledgement so that their response is swift.
- If you think there will be any problems hire an independent party wall surveyor from the outset. We can happily share our recommended surveyor details with you. You must also pay for a surveyor of your neighbours choice if they wish to get an independent opinion.
Running into problems does happen, and independent surveyors are able to give a Party Wall Award, which is a legal document detailing the works affecting the party wall, and who is responsible for paying for it. If you really disagree with this document, then you can appeal it via county court. Don’t worry, needing to do this is incredibly rare!
If you’re using Sevenoaks Plans, we’ll provide you with guidance if you wish. Please don’t hesitate to contact us for more information!