cover legal and practical issues when construction affects shared walls, boundaries, or nearby buildings.
Walls
| Party Wall
PW
| Neighbourly Matters
NM
Understand your
PW, NM can have linked risk with ROL and factored into your Project Strategy
Concomitant risks
PW
Legislation - Party Wall etc. Act 1996
a shared wall or structure between two separately owned properties, typically in terraced or semi-detached houses. It can also include floors and ceilings between flats or apartments.
In England and Wales, the rules around party walls are governed by the Party Wall etc. Act 1996, which provides a legal framework for resolving disputes over building work that affects shared structures
Key Points:
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Work on a wall shared with another property (party wall).
Building on the boundary line.
Excavation near a neighbouring building (within 3 to 6 meters, depending on depth).
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You must give neighbours written notice of proposed works (usually 1–2 months in advance).
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Neighbours can consent or dissent. If they dissent, a surveyor(s) may be appointed to resolve the issue via a Party Wall Award.
The goal is to protect both parties' property and avoid or resolve disputes legally and fairly.
NM
Cover a wide range of issues that require sensitive treatment. These can include: Access Rights - Permissions to enter and use land for activities like construction or maintenance. Crane and Over Sail Licences - Permits allowing cranes or equipment to extend over neighbouring properties. Boundary Determination - Establishing the exact location of property lines to prevent disputes.