Party Wall Ect. Act 1996
Explained
What is the purpose of the act
The purpose of the Party Wall Act is to help get building works to proceed in a proper manner. It is not meant as a road block or to hinder works going forward.
If the act is used properly it will take away the need to resolve problems in court and the added cost of the solicitors fees.
Not only does the act help the building owner to proceed with works but it protects the adjoining owner if there is any damage to their property due to the works.
What work can be done without notice/permission
Under the Party Wall Act some work is not covered. Such work include:
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Putting up shelves and wall units
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Replastering
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Electrical rewiring
How it works
The process starts when a Party Wall notice is served.
The reason for the notice is to let the adjoining owner know what work will be taking place in conjunction with There are three sections that you can serve notices on.
Section 1 deals with works that are built on or astride the line of junction, where there is no existing structure. This requires a notice period of one month.
Section 2 deals with works that affect the party structure between different owners. The section lists 13 sub-sections covering various types of works that affect a party wall or in some cases a party floor and requires a notice period of two months.
Section 6 deals with works associated with excavation within 3/6 meters distances of the adjoining structure in which those excavations will go deeper than the foundations of the adjoining structures and requires a notice period of one month.
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