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FAQs

The Party Wall etc Act 1996

How long will the process take from start to finish?

  • Notices are prepared within 1 week of the appointment.

  • Neighbours need 1 to 2 months notice before works begin (depending on the intended works).

How much will it cost?

  • The cost will typically vary between £700 and £1000 - the building owner doing the work pays the surveyors' bills.

  • No VAT chargeable.

When does the Party Wall etc Act apply?

  • You must give notice under the Party Wall Act if you're excavating for new foundations that are deeper than the foundations of your neighbours' home and that are within 3 or 6 meters of the neighbour's nearest structure.

  • Notice also needs to be served if you are doing work to the party wall such as inserting beams or cutting away from the wall such as removing chimney breasts or changing the height of the party wall.

  • New build on the boundary line also needs a notice.

Can building work start before the award is finalised?

  • No, at least not the part of the works that are covered by the Act. It would be unlawful.

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