The Party Wall etc. Act 1996 applies in England and Wales. It covers particular work involving shared structures, walls at boundaries, and excavations close to neighbouring structures. It does not mean every renovation requires a notice.
Work on an existing party wall
Certain alterations to a shared wall or party structure, such as cutting into it to insert a beam or removing a chimney breast, can fall under section 2. These generally require a party structure notice served at least two months in advance.
A new wall at the boundary
If you intend to construct a wall up to or astride the boundary, section 1 may apply. The minimum notice period is generally one month. A wall built astride the boundary requires the adjoining owner's written consent; silence cannot be taken as permission to build across the line.
Excavating near foundations
Qualifying excavation within three or six metres of a neighbouring building or structure can fall under section 6. Its application depends on foundation depths and geometry, not simply the distance from a fence. The required notice includes drawings and information about excavation depth and safeguarding foundations.
When a notice may not be required
Some minor work, such as installing a normal shelf or replacing plaster, may not require formal notice. The important question is whether the work affects structural strength or support, or could damage the neighbouring side.
Who must receive it?
The adjoining owner may be a freeholder or a qualifying leaseholder. More than one adjoining owner can be involved, and you may need to serve multiple notices.
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