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Party Wall Service: Expert Assistance for Smooth Property Alterations.
At Smart Home Surveyors, we understand that property alterations and construction projects can affect neighboring properties. Our Party Wall service provides professional guidance and support to navigate party walls’ legal requirements and obligations. Our expertise and commitment to excellence ensure a smooth and compliant process for all parties involved. Smart Home Surveyors are associate members of FPWS (Faculty of Party Wall Surveyors).
What is a Party Wall?
A party wall is a shared wall or structure between two adjoining properties. It can also include party fence walls or walls that separate different sections of a property. When property owners plan certain types of construction or renovation work, such as building an extension or carrying out structural changes, the Party Wall, etc. Act 1996 may come into play. This legislation outlines the rights, obligations, and procedures for undertaking work that may affect the party wall.
Our Party Wall Service:
Expert Advice and Guidance: Our knowledgeable surveyor team provides expert advice and guidance on all aspects of the Party Wall etc. Act 1996. We help you understand your rights and responsibilities as a property owner undertaking party wall work, ensuring compliance with the legislation.
- Party Wall Notices: We assist in preparing and serving the necessary party wall notices to inform your neighbors about the planned works and seek their consent. We ensure that the notices comply with the legal requirements, including the necessary information and timelines.
- Party Wall Awards: When an agreement cannot reach between the involved parties, we act as a party wall surveyor to facilitate the resolution process. We impartially assess the proposed works, consider the concerns of all parties, and draft a legally binding Party Wall Award that outlines the rights and obligations of each party.
- Expert Inspections and Assessments: Our surveyors conduct thorough inspections of the party wall and adjoining properties to assess their current condition. We can prepare a schedule of condition reports if required. We document any pre-existing defects or damage to establish a baseline for potential claims and ensure that any new damage caused by the works is properly recorded and addressed.
- Compliance and Peace of Mind: By engaging our Party Wall service, you can be confident that your construction or renovation project meets the legal requirements. We ensure that all necessary documentation is prepared, proper notice is given, and all parties’ rights and concerns are considered.
Surveys
Price Range (No VAT to pay)
£550 – £1050
Examples of work covered by the Party Wall Act include:
- Building a new wall on or at the boundary between two properties.
- Cutting into a party wall to install beams or other supports.
- Increasing the height or thickness of a party wall.
- Excavating near a neighboring property for foundation work or basement construction
- Demolishing and rebuilding a party wall.
- Underpinning a party wall for foundation repair or reinforcement.
- Inserting a damp-proof course into a party wall.
- Extending a party wall upwards or downwards, such as for a loft conversion or basement extension.
“It’s important to note that the Party Wall Act applies to specific types of work that may affect the party wall or the adjoining properties. If you are still determining whether your planned project falls under the scope of the Act, it is advisable to consult with a qualified party wall surveyor or seek legal advice. Additionally, it’s crucial to serve the necessary party wall notices to your neighbors following the Act and follow the proper procedures to ensure compliance and minimise potential disputes.”
Party Wall Agreement
A Party Wall Agreement, also known as a Party Wall Award, is a legally binding document that outlines the rights and responsibilities of property owners when carrying out specific works that fall under the Party Wall Act. This agreement ensures that all parties know the proposed construction or alterations and agree on the necessary measures to protect their properties.
Choose Smart Home Surveyors for a Smooth Party Wall Process.
With Smart home Surveyors’ Party Wall service, you can confidently proceed with your property alterations or construction projects. Our expertise in party wall matters, attention to detail, and commitment to client satisfaction ensure a seamless process that minimises conflicts and ensures compliance with the law. Contact us today to discuss your party wall requirements, and let our expert team guide you.
Frequently asked questions
A party wall refers to a shared wall, boundary, or structure that separates two adjoining properties. It can also include garden walls, fences, or structures that stand on the boundary line.
A party wall agreement, also known as a party wall award, is a legally binding document that outlines the rights and responsibilities of property owners when carrying out construction or renovation works that may affect a shared party wall, boundary, or structure. It is governed by the Party Wall etc. Act 1996. The agreement is reached between the property owner undertaking the works (the building owner) and the neighboring property owner(s) (the adjoining owner(s)).
You typically need a party wall agreement when you plan to carry out construction or renovation works that may affect a shared party wall, boundary, or structure between your property and your neighbor’s property. The Party Wall etc. Act 1996 requires you to serve a party wall notice to your adjoining neighbors, notifying them of your intentions and providing an opportunity for them to agree to the proposed works or raise any concerns.
The cost of a party wall agreement can vary depending on several factors. The complexity of the proposed works, the number of adjoining properties involved, and the specific requirements of the project all influence the overall cost.
Why choose us?
Quick, easy and efficient. That’s what you can expect from Smart Home Surveyors. Our RICS-registered services are designed to give you the best possible experience, with quick turnaround times and round the clock customer support.
We have years of experience behind us. We have the right skills and experience to provide you a detailed and concise report to give you the peace of mind that you deserve.