The short answer
Not every minor job to a party wall needs a notice. The test is whether the work affects the structural strength, support function or integrity of the wall, or risks damage to the adjoining owner’s side. Ordinary fixings and replastering are usually outside the Act; damp-proof course injection and new chases for flashings usually are not.
Why it matters
The government’s explanatory booklet treats jobs like drilling for plugs and screws, cutting in recessed wiring and sockets, and replastering as too minor to need notice. But similar-sounding jobs can be different:
- Drilling to inject a supplementary damp-proof course — usually requires a notice. Drilling for damp-proofing can affect the wall beyond your side, especially if holes go deep or through the full thickness, and can affect the wall’s performance and condition. It should not be treated like ordinary plugs and screws.
- Replacing existing flashings to a party parapet wall — a notice may not be needed if the work reuses an existing chase without cutting further into the wall. If a new chase is cut, or the wall is cut into more deeply, notice is usually required.
- Fixing a timber frame to support a suspended ceiling — often too minor if the fixings are shallow and ordinary and do not affect the wall’s strength or support. If the frame imposes significant load, uses unusually deep fixings or affects the structure, the position can change.
What to do now
- Apply the practical test: does the work affect the strength, support or integrity of the wall, or risk damage next door?
- If yes, serve a notice. If in doubt, take advice before starting.
- Check whether you can reuse an existing chase rather than cutting a new one.
Common mistakes
- Assuming anything “small” is automatically exempt.
- Treating damp-proof course injection like ordinary shelf fixings.
- Cutting a new chase for flashings without serving notice.
- Starting the work first and asking the question later.
When to call Coburns
If you are unsure whether your work is notifiable, send us a description or drawings and we will tell you whether a notice is needed before you start.