Advice For Home Owners
Home renovations can inadvertently fall under the Party Wall etc. Act 1996—even when it’s not obvious. Understanding your rights and responsibilities is essential to avoiding project delays, neighbour disputes, or unnecessary costs.
Why It Matters
If your renovation affects a party wall, boundary structure, or involves excavation nearby, you're legally required to serve notice or reach an agreement with neighbours. Missing this can lead to disputes, costly delays, or legal claims.
How You Can Navigate It
Stay Informed
Understand when Party Wall rules apply to your renovation.
Get Support
Consult a Party Wall Surveyor early to guide you through obligations.
Respond Correctly
Know how to reply to notices—your rights may include consent or the right to dissent.
Don’t Panic
Receiving a Party Wall Notice can be stressful, but remember your neighbour is just fulfilling a legal requirement.
Your Role
You may be unfamiliar with the legalities—but with proper advice, you can manage or delegate the process effectively, protecting your project and peace of mind.
Key Triggers to Watch
You’ll need to consider Party Wall processes if you're:
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Altering or demolishing a shared wall eg. loft conversions, removal of chimneys.
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Building on or right against a boundary line eg. Extensions or garden walls.
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Carrying out excavations within set distances of neighbouring structures eg. Extension foundations and basements.
Smooth Notifications
A Party Wall Surveyor can ensure notices are correctly drafted, served, and timeline-managed—so you stay compliant and avoid misunderstandings.
Timing Is Key
These legal steps can take time—build them into your renovation schedule to avoid last-minute surprises.
Keeping Good Neighbourly Relations
Professional, considerate communication via surveyor or yourself preserves goodwill and helps the works proceed smoothly
Contact Us
Contact us today by phone or email to speak directly with an experienced Party Wall Surveyor.
Phone: 07468 900887
Email: Info@sharedwalls.co.uk
Address: 12 Newton Road, Lindfield, West Sussex RH16 2ND
Areas We Cover: East & West Sussex, Surry and Kent
Get in Touch for Free Advice
Whether you’re a builder looking for clarity on the Party Wall Act or a homeowner needing reassurance before starting work, we’re here to help. Our team offers free, no-obligation phone advice to guide you through the process and answer any questions you may have.
Speaking to a Party Wall Surveyor early can
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Save time by identifying if notices are needed before work begins
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Prevent costly disputes with neighbours
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Keep your project on schedule and legally compliant