Planning your project
Planning work on your home?
The Party Wall etc. Act 1996 protects you and your neighbours when building work affects a shared wall or boundary.
No notice = no protection
- Delays your project
- Creates disputes
- Increases costs
Planning an extension
Planning internal alterations
Planning a loft conversion
Quick decision guide
Ask yourself three questions
?
Are you building at or across the boundary?
→ The Act may apply — but can sometimes be avoided with a minor design change.
?
Are you cutting into, away from or altering a party wall or shared structure?
→ e.g. beam pockets for lofts or extensions, or removing chimneys — the Act usually applies.
?
Are you excavating near a neighbouring structure?
→ Within 3 metres, or within 6 metres with pile foundations — the Act normally applies.
!
If the answer to any question is yes, it’s worth checking the position early. When should notices be served?
Early questions homeowners often ask
The answers you need up front
Does the Act apply here?
If your work affects a shared wall or boundary, or involves excavation near a neighbour, it often does. We can confirm quickly from your plans. See the building owner’s role.
Which notices will I receive — or need to serve?
That depends on the work: typically a party structure notice, a line of junction notice, or an excavation notice. We’ll advise which apply.
When should notices be served?
As early as you can — usually one to two months before work starts. See our guide to serving notices.
What happens if a neighbour dissents?
A surveyor is appointed — either a single Agreed Surveyor for both, or one each — to settle matters with a Party Wall Award.
Will this delay my project?
Handled early, the process rarely holds things up. Left late, it can. Early advice keeps you moving.
Get a quick review today
Send us your plans and we’ll tell you if the Act applies.
Quick responsePractical adviceNo obligation