Party Wall Services

Party Wall Surveyors undertake numerous different roles through the process of agreeing a Party Wall Award.

Processes include:

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Agreeing a Party Wall Award, which is a legal document protecting the adjoining owner’s property against any damage. A Party Wall Award is often referred to as a Party Wall Agreement.

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Reviewing all structural and design drawings and then to advise on the implications of the Party Wall etc. Act 1996.

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Visiting the adjoining owner’s property prior to the start of the Party Wall works to take a detailed Schedule of Condition which is a factual record of the condition of a property. This report is prepared in association with a comprehensive Photographic Record. So if there is any damage caused as a consequence of the works; it is a matter of record and not of dispute.

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The Award will include protection statements so that those undertaking the work know what is required to protect the adjoining owner’s property and which contractors will then adhere to during the course of the Party Wall works.

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Visits are made to inspect upon completion of the works and when necessary, dependant on the complexity of the project, during the construction. This ensures the Party Wall Award is adhered to and therefore the interests of all parties are protected.

Party Wall Notices

We advise that it is usually best if the Party Wall Notices required are drafted and served by an experienced surveyor as this can avoid irregularities. An invalid notice can cause potential problems.

However, should you wish to serve your own notices we will be happy to advise you accordingly.

If you have received a notice we can let you know if it is valid and the potential effect on your property.

The Party Wall etc. Act 1996

The Party Wall etc. Act 1996 defines the legal procedure and processes that need to be undertaken before a building owner (the person undertaking the building works to) commences on the proposed construction.

The Act 1996 encompasses three specific types of work where notice must be served:

1. Works directly to a Party Wall. Typically cutting into a Party Wall to install RSJs or raising a Party Wall i.e. when a loft conversion is carried out.

4. The Party Wall Award process ensures that both the building owner and the adjoining owner are legally protected before, during and after the works.

2. Excavations within 3m or 6m and to a depth lower that the adjoining owner’s (the neighbour’s) foundations. This would apply as in the case of an extension when concrete foundations are to be constructed.

5. Appointing a professional surveyor ensures the potential risk is reduced to a minimum.

3. New walls built up to, or astride, the line of junction. Often required when new dwelling houses are built or extensions constructed.

Jordan Brettell Limited
Clibbons Cottage
85 Bramfield Road
Datchworth, Hertfordshire
SG3 6SA

Herts: 01438 798870
07815 051255

Email: info@jordanbrettell.com
www.jordanbrettell.com

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