The short answer
Preparing your own notices can look like a saving, but a high proportion of notices prepared by homeowners or builders contain errors that cause delay, reset the timetable and unsettle the neighbour. A clear, professionally drafted notice sets the tone for the whole process and is often one of the cheapest ways to keep it on track.
Why it matters
Common errors include serving the wrong owner, using the wrong notice type, giving the wrong period, omitting required drawings or sections, describing the works too vaguely, or serving incorrectly. An invalid notice may have to be served again, resetting the clock and damaging confidence before the project even starts. A credible notice shows you are following the Act properly, which makes consent, or an agreed surveyor appointment, more likely. A surveyor can also arrange a schedule of condition that protects both owners.
What to do now
- Have a specialist confirm the notice type, recipients and period before serving.
- Make sure required drawings and sections are included.
- Ask the surveyor to arrange a schedule of condition recording the neighbour’s property before work begins.
- Treat notice preparation as risk reduction, not just paperwork.
Common mistakes
- Serving vague or incorrect notices that then have to be redone.
- Leaving out drawings the Act requires.
- Skipping the schedule of condition, then arguing about damage later.
- Assuming the cheapest route at notice stage is the cheapest overall.
When to call Coburns
We prepare and serve your party wall notices free of charge. Send us your plans and we will get the notice package right first time.