Menu
If you’re planning on undertaking construction work on a shared wall or boundary, it’s essential to understand party wall agreements. These agreements are designed to protect the rights and responsibilities of both parties involved in the construction work, ensuring that the work is carried out without causing damage to the property of the adjoining owner.
Here are some essential dos and don’ts of party wall agreements to help protect your property and ensure that you’re in compliance with the law:
Do: Notify the Adjoining Owner in Writing
The first step in any party wall agreement is to inform the adjoining owner in writing that you intend to carry out construction work. This notification should be provided at least two months before the work is scheduled to start, and it should detail the nature and scope of the work you plan to undertake.
Don’t: Undertake Work Without Notification
If you undertake construction work without notifying the adjoining owner in writing, you may be committing a criminal offense. It’s essential to follow the proper procedure and provide adequate notice before starting any construction work on a shared wall or boundary.
Do: Appoint a Surveyor
It’s important to appoint a surveyor who can act on your behalf during the party wall agreement process. This surveyor can help to ensure that the work is carried out in compliance with the agreement and can help to resolve any disputes that may arise during the construction process.
Don’t: Assume You Don’t Need a Surveyor
While it may be tempting to try and handle the party wall agreement process yourself, it’s always advisable to appoint a surveyor to ensure that everything is handled correctly. Failure to do so can result in disputes and even legal action, which can be costly and time-consuming.
Do: Provide Adequate Protection
It’s important to provide adequate protection to the adjoining owner’s property during the construction process. This may include taking steps to prevent damage to their property, such as installing protective barriers, and ensuring that any debris or waste is disposed of in a safe and responsible manner.
Don’t: Neglect to Provide Adequate Protection
Failing to provide adequate protection to the adjoining owner’s property can result in damage that could have been easily avoided. This can lead to disputes and legal action, which can be expensive and time-consuming to resolve.
Do: Agree on a Schedule of Condition
A schedule of condition is a record of the condition of the adjoining owner’s property before the construction work begins. This document can help to ensure that any damage caused during the construction process can be accurately assessed and attributed.
Don’t: Proceed Without a Schedule of Condition
Without a schedule of condition, it can be difficult to determine whether any damage was caused during the construction process. This can lead to disputes and legal action, which can be costly and time-consuming to resolve.
Party wall agreements are an essential aspect of any construction work that involves a shared wall or boundary. By following the dos and don’ts outlined above, you can help to protect your property and ensure that the construction work is carried out in compliance with the law. Remember, it’s always advisable to appoint a surveyor to help guide you through the process and ensure that everything is handled correctly.