Party Wall Act 1996: Homeowner Guide
The Party Wall Act 1996 protects you and your neighbours when building work happens near shared walls and boundaries. It is separate from planning permission and Building Regulations — but just as important to get right.
When the Act applies
When the Act applies
You must serve a Party Wall Notice if: (1) building on or at the shared boundary; (2) cutting into a party wall (e.g. for a beam or flue); (3) excavating within 3m of your neighbour's building if the excavation goes below their foundations; or (4) excavating within 6m if the excavation creates a 45-degree line that would intersect their foundations.
The notice process
Serve written notice on your neighbour(s) at least 2 months before starting work (1 month for excavation). The neighbour has 14 days to consent or dissent. If they consent in writing, no surveyors are needed. If they dissent (or do not respond), surveyors are appointed to prepare a Party Wall Award.
Surveyor costs
If surveyors are needed, you (the building owner) typically pay for both your surveyor and your neighbour's surveyor. An 'agreed surveyor' (one surveyor acting for both parties) costs £500–£1,000. Separate surveyors cost £700–£1,500 per neighbour. A schedule of condition survey (documenting the neighbour's property before work starts) costs £200–£400.
Common questions
Frequently asked questions
Ready to start your project?
The Party Wall Act explained — when you need a party wall agreement, how to serve notice, surveyor costs, and timelines. Plain-English guide for homeowners.
Every plan drawn by qualified drafters in Poole, Dorset
Serving homeowners across Poole, Bournemouth, Christchurch, Wimborne, Wareham, and the wider Dorset area.