Trinity Party Wall SurveyorsThe Party Wall etc. Act 1996 provides a framework for preventing and resolving disputes when building work affects shared walls, boundary structures or excavations close to adjoining properties in England and Wales.
This guide is general information, not legal advice or a definitive interpretation of the Act. See the official UK Government explanatory booklet.
What does the Act cover?
Party walls
Walls shared between properties, including many terraced and semi-detached homes.
Party structures
Floors or other structures separating buildings or parts of buildings, including some flats.
Line of junction
New walls built up to or astride the boundary line between separately owned land.
Excavations
Excavation within 3 or 6 metres where the statutory depth tests are met.
Your responsibilities
If planned work falls under the Act, the Building Owner must notify all relevant Adjoining Owners. A valid notice identifies the owners and building, describes the proposed work and states when it is intended to begin. Excavation notices also require plans and sections showing location and depth.
Notice periods and responses
A Party Structure Notice generally requires two months’ notice. Line of Junction and qualifying excavation notices generally require one month. For section 2 and section 6 notices, an Adjoining Owner who does not respond in writing within 14 days is deemed to be in dispute, allowing the surveyor appointment procedure to begin.
Why compliance matters
The Act has no routine enforcement body, but starting notifiable work without following it can expose a Building Owner to an injunction, other civil remedies, additional costs and project delay. The Act is separate from planning permission and building regulations.
How Trinity PWS can help
- Advice on whether the Act applies
- Preparation and service of valid notices
- Party Wall Awards and protective provisions
- Written and photographic Schedules of Condition
- Building Owner, Adjoining Owner and Agreed Surveyor roles
Speak to a surveyor early. The correct notice, ownership checks and statutory period can affect your intended start date.