Understanding the Party Wall Award Process and the Benefits of Choosing Duchy Party Wall Surveying

When planning building work that affects a shared wall or boundary with a neighbour, understanding the party wall award process is essential. This legal framework helps prevent disputes and ensures that construction proceeds smoothly. Many property owners and developers find it wise to instruct a specialist firm like Duchy Party Wall Surveying to manage this process. This article explains the steps involved in a party wall award and why working with experienced surveyors can save time, money, and stress.

Party / Boundary Wall.

What Is a Party Wall Award?

A party wall award is a legal document that sets out the rights and responsibilities of neighbours when building work affects a shared wall or boundary. It is made under the Party Wall etc. Act 1996, which applies in England and Wales. The award is prepared by one or more party wall surveyors and outlines:

• The scope of the proposed work

• How and when the work will be carried out

• Any precautions to protect the adjoining property

• Procedures for resolving disputes

  
  

The award protects both the building owner and the adjoining owner by clearly defining what can be done and how potential damage will be handled.

When Is a Party Wall Award Needed?

You need a party wall award if your planned work involves:

• Building a new wall on the boundary line between two properties

• Cutting into or repairing an existing shared wall

• Excavating near a neighbour’s foundation

• Demolishing and rebuilding a shared wall

  
  

For example, if you want to build a loft extension that requires strengthening the party wall, you must serve a party wall notice and, if necessary, agree on an award.

Failing to follow the party wall process can lead to legal disputes, delays, and even court action. That is why understanding the process and working with experts is so important.

The Party Wall Award Process Explained

The party wall award process involves several clear steps. Each step ensures that both parties understand their rights and responsibilities before work begins.

1. Serving the Party Wall Notice

The building owner must serve a written notice to the adjoining owner at least two months before starting work. This notice explains the nature and timing of the planned work. There are three types of notices:

• Party Structure Notice for work on shared walls

• Line of Junction Notice for building on or near a boundary

• Notice of Adjacent Excavation for digging near a neighbour’s foundation

  
  

2. Response from the Adjoining Owner

The neighbour has 14 days to respond. They can:

• Agree to the work (consent)

• Disagree and appoint a surveyor to act on their behalf

• Do nothing, which counts as disagreement

  
  

If both parties agree, the work can proceed without an award. If not, the surveyor process begins.

3. Appointment of Surveyors

If there is a dispute, each party appoints a surveyor. The two surveyors can agree to appoint a single “agreed surveyor” to prepare the award. These surveyors are impartial and must act fairly.

4. Surveyors Prepare the Award

The surveyors inspect the properties and draft the award. This document includes:

• Details of the work

• A schedule of condition describing the state of the adjoining property before work starts

• How and when the work will be carried out

• Any safeguards to protect the neighbour’s property

• Procedures for resolving disputes

  
  

5. Serving the Award

The award is served on both parties. It becomes legally binding once served. Work can only start after this point.

6. Carrying Out the Work

The building owner carries out the work according to the award. The surveyors may inspect the work to ensure compliance.

7. Resolving Disputes

If problems arise during or after the work, the award provides a framework for resolving them, often through the surveyors or, if necessary, the courts.

Why Instruct Duchy Party Wall Surveying?

Choosing the right firm to handle your party wall matters makes a big difference. Duchy Party Wall Surveying offers expertise and practical support throughout the process.

Expertise in Party Wall Law

Duchy’s surveyors have in-depth knowledge of the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 and extensive experience handling a wide range of cases. They understand the legal requirements and how to apply them fairly.

Clear Communication

Duchy ensures that all parties understand the process and what to expect. They prepare clear, detailed notices and awards that reduce confusion and prevent disputes.

Efficient Process Management

By managing the timeline and paperwork efficiently, Duchy helps avoid delays. Their proactive approach means work can start on time and proceed without unnecessary hold-ups.

Protecting Your Property and Interests

Duchy surveyors conduct thorough inspections and prepare detailed schedules of condition. This protects your property and provides evidence if damage claims arise.

Cost-Effective Solutions

While some may try to handle party wall matters themselves, mistakes can be costly. Duchy’s professional service helps avoid expensive disputes and legal fees, saving money in the long run.

Practical Examples

• A homeowner planning a rear extension used Duchy to serve notices and prepare the award. The neighbour initially disagreed, but Duchy’s clear communication and fair award helped both parties agree quickly, allowing work to start on schedule.

• A developer working on a block of flats instructed Duchy to manage multiple party wall awards simultaneously. Their efficient handling kept the project on track and avoided costly delays.

  
  

What to Expect When Working with Duchy Party Wall Surveying

When you instruct Duchy, you can expect:

• A prompt initial consultation to assess your project

• Clear advice on whether a party wall award is needed

• Preparation and service of all necessary notices

• Appointment of surveyors if disputes arise

• Detailed schedules of condition and award preparation

• Ongoing support during the construction phase

  
  

Their goal is to make the party wall process straightforward and stress-free.

Tips for a Smooth Party Wall Process

To avoid problems, keep these tips in mind:

• Start early: Serve notices at least two months before work begins

• Keep neighbours informed: Open communication reduces tension

• Use professional surveyors: Avoid DIY notices or awards

• Document everything: Photos and reports protect your interests

• Follow the award: Stick to agreed methods and timelines

Please get in contact:

(T) 07873 295886

(E) office@duchypws.co.uk

Duchy Party Wall Surveying.