Party Walls

Whilst it may be obvious that 'party walls' must have existed for a very long time, legislation regulating such structures has its roots in London in 1667, just after the Great Fire. More recently, the London Building Acts of the 1930’s established the principles of Party Wall procedure in London, extended to the rest of the UK in the Party Wall etc. Act 1996.

The Party Wall etc. Act 1996 defines the rights of owners. An owner cannot do what he likes with his own part of the wall, and yet he can use his neighbour’s part without permission – very often, indeed, in the teeth of his determined opposition. The Act deals with the appointment of surveyors by each party and notices that must be served before works to a party wall – or excavations close to a neighbouring property – can be carried out.

The relationship between the Party Wall Surveyor and the appointing owner is not that of client and agent. It is a statutory relationship that requires the surveyor to see that the provisions of the Act are properly complied with. It is therefore essential that the surveyor is properly acquainted with Party Wall procedures.

Agreements relating to party wall matters are documented as a Party Wall Award which covers such matters as what work is to be done, how and when it shall be done and how disputes arising shall be determined. The Award will usually include a schedule of condition so that any damage caused by the works can be agreed.
bspm service (Bulding Owner):

  • Advise where notices are required and ensure procedures of the Act are followed
  • Agree and document party wall matters, including Party Wall Awards
  • Inspect and agree condition of adjoining owner's property prior to and after the works

bspm service (Adjoining Owner):

  • Ensure accuracy of notices served
  • Agree and document party wall matters, including Party Wall Awards
  • Inspect and agree condition of adjoining owner's property prior to and after the works
  • Ensure terms of Award are complied with and any damage made good


Basis of Fees

Fees are typically charged on a time taken basis.

Adjoining owners surveyor's fees are usually paid by the building owner who is carrying out the work.