Overview
The Party Wall Act’s main purpose is to keep building disputes out of court. For certain types of work it is compulsory — if you are carrying out such work, you are legally obliged to give notice to your neighbours. There are three relevant types of work.
Section 1 — line of junction
For a new wall built at, or across, the boundary between two properties.
Section 3 — party structure
For any work to a shared structure, such as a party wall.
Section 6 — adjacent excavation and construction
For excavation — most often for foundations — near to and deeper than a neighbour’s foundations.
If your work falls under any of these descriptions, you should be serving notice. If in any doubt, send your plans to info@coburnspartywall.co.uk for a free assessment.
A word of warning
Ignoring the Party Wall Act can affect your ability to sell or refinance your property. And if a damage claim arises, it can end up costing far more than you would hope.