Party Wall Act FAQs: Everything You Need to Know

Whether you’re planning building works or responding to a neighbour’s project, the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 can feel confusing at first. At Shared Walls, we’re here to make the process clear. Below, we’ve answered the most common questions people ask us about Party Wall matters.

What is the Party Wall Act?

The Party Wall etc. Act 1996 is a law that provides a framework for preventing and resolving disputes about building works affecting shared (party) walls, boundaries, or structures.

It protects both the Building Owner (the person carrying out works) and the Adjoining Owner (the neighbour affected by the works).

What is a Party Wall?

A party wall is a wall or structure shared by two or more properties. Examples include:

• The wall between two terraced houses.

• The dividing wall in semi-detached properties.

• Garden boundary walls built across two properties.It also covers floors/ceilings between flats and other shared structures.

Who is the Building Owner?

The Building Owner is the person planning to carry out works that may affect a party wall, boundary, or shared structure. If you’re doing the building, that’s you.

Who is the Adjoining Owner?

The Adjoining Owner is your neighbour whose property may be affected by your proposed works. They have legal rights under the Act to protect their property.

What kind of work falls under the Act?

You may need to follow the Act if you’re planning:

• Building an extension.

• Converting a loft.

• Excavating foundations within 3–6 metres of a neighbour’s property.

• Altering or cutting into a shared (party) wall.

• Building a new wall on the boundary.

What is a Party Wall Notice?

A Party Wall Notice is a formal written notice the Building Owner must serve to the Adjoining Owner before works start. It explains the nature of the planned works and gives neighbours a chance to consent or dissent.

What happens if my neighbour consents?

If your neighbour consents in writing, the works can go ahead as planned, provided they follow the notice.

What happens if my neighbour dissents?

If your neighbour dissents (doesn’t agree), the Act requires the appointment of one or more Party Wall Surveyors. Their job is to resolve the matter fairly and issue a Party Wall Award.

What is a Party Wall Award?

A Party Wall Award is a legally binding document prepared by surveyors. It sets out:

• The works that can be carried out.

• How and when they should be done.

• Access arrangements.

• Who pays surveyors’ fees and costs.

What is a Schedule of Condition?

A Schedule of Condition is a detailed record (with photos and notes) of the adjoining property before works start. This protects both parties if there are later disputes about damage.

Who pays for the surveyors?

In most cases, the Building Owner pays the surveyors’ fees, since they are the one carrying out the works.

What happens if I ignore the Party Wall Act?

Ignoring the Act can result in:

• Legal action from your neighbour.

• Delays to your project.

• Increased costs if disputes escalate.

• Strained relationships with neighbours.

It’s always better to follow the correct process from the start.

Do I need a Party Wall Surveyor?

If your neighbour dissents or if there’s a dispute, yes. A surveyor ensures the process is handled properly and legally. Even if there’s no dispute, many homeowners choose to appoint a surveyor for peace of mind.

How Shared Walls Can Help

At Shared Walls, we:

• Advise you on whether the Act applies to your project.

• Draft and serve Party Wall Notices.

• Act as appointed Party Wall Surveyors for Building Owners or Adjoining Owners.

• Prepare Schedules of Condition and Party Wall Awards.

• Ensure projects move forward without unnecessary delays.

👉 Have more questions about the Party Wall Act? Contact Shared Walls today — we’ll explain everything in plain English and guide you every step of the way.