What to Do When Your Family Home Extension in Cornwall Requires a Party Wall Award
- Duchy Party Wall Surveyors
- 1 day ago
- 4 min read
As a homeowner in Cornwall, planning a home extension can be an exciting journey. However, it comes with its own set of responsibilities. One critical aspect you may need to address is arranging a Party Wall Award. Understanding what this entails will help you navigate the process smoothly. In this blog post, we'll outline your responsibilities concerning the Party Wall Award, and how you can ensure this part of your project goes off without a hitch.
What Is a Party Wall Award?
A Party Wall Award is a legal document required when you plan to carry out construction work that affects a shared wall or boundary with a neighboring property. In Cornwall, as elsewhere in the UK, this award is governed by the Party Wall etc. Act 1996. If your planned home extension involves any work on a party wall, it’s your responsibility as the homeowner to arrange for the Party Wall Award.
Why You Should Start Early
One of the first steps in your home extension planning should be addressing the Party Wall Award. Delaying this can lead to significant project delays. It is essential to remember that the process may take time due to negotiations and obtaining necessary approvals. Therefore, starting as early as possible is crucial to keep your project on track.
For instance, consider the case of the Smith family from Truro. They began their home extension planning in January but neglected to initiate the Party Wall Award process until a month later. As a result, their project was delayed by several weeks, which increased costs and caused frustration. Starting as early as possible can help you avoid similar scenarios.
Steps to Arrange a Party Wall Award
Arranging a Party Wall Award involves several steps. Let’s break down this process:
Step 1: Notify Your Neighbors
The first step in obtaining a Party Wall Award is to notify your neighbors who might be affected by your home extension. This notification should be sent at least two months before the proposed work begins. You can do this through a formal written notice that outlines your planned construction work.
Step 2: Wait for Responses
Once you have issued your notice, your neighbours will have 14 days to respond. They might agree to the work, contest it, or request additional time for consideration. Encouraging open communication with your neighbors can greatly help this process.
Step 3: Appoint a Party Wall Surveyor
If your neighbour agrees to your proposal, you can prepare for the next steps. However, if they disagree or do not respond within 14 days, it will be necessary to appoint a Party Wall Surveyor. Both you and your neighbor will need to have your surveyors in this case, who will negotiate a Party Wall Award.
Step 4: Drafting the Party Wall Award
The Party Wall Surveyor will then draft the Party Wall Award, which details the specifics of the work and any precautions that need to be taken to avoid compromising the neighbouring property. This document is essential to protect the rights of both parties as construction moves forward.
Step 5: Complete the Work
Once the award has been finalised and agreed upon, you can begin your home extension work. It is crucial to follow the terms outlined in the Party Wall Award throughout the construction process to avoid potential disputes.
Common Questions About Party Wall Awards
As a homeowner, it's natural to have questions about the Party Wall Award process. Here are a few common inquiries:
Do I need a Party Wall Award for all extensions?
Not all extensions require a Party Wall Award. However, if your work involves shared walls or boundaries, it typically does.
What if my neighbour refuses to sign?
If your neighbour disagrees with your plans and refuses to agree to a Party Wall Award, mediation or third-party involvement may be required, which emphasises the importance of appointing a qualified Party Wall Surveyor.
How much does it cost?
Costs can vary based on the complexity of the project and the fees charged by the surveyor. Always discuss potential fees upfront to avoid surprises.
Why Choose Duchy Party Wall Surveying?
Navigating a Party Wall Award can be challenging, especially if it’s your first time. This is where professionals like Duchy Party Wall Surveying come in. Our experienced team can help guide you through the entire process, ensuring your home extension project complies with all legal requirements.
Whether you're unsure about the necessity of a Party Wall Award or need assistance in handling potential objections from your neighbours, Duchy Party Wall Surveying is here to help.
By contacting us, you will receive tailored advice relevant to your specific project, helping you to understand your responsibilities clearly. Don't hesitate to reach out with any questions you may have.
Final Thoughts on Party Wall Awards
In summary, arranging a Party Wall Award is your responsibility as a homeowner in Cornwall planning an extension. Starting this process early can save you from project delays and unforeseen complications. Remember the steps involved: notify your neighbours, wait for responses, appoint a surveyor if required, draft, and finalize the award.
By engaging with professionals like Duchy Party Wall Surveying, you can ensure a smoother experience. We encourage you to reach out to us for guidance tailored to your unique home extension plans. Your dream extension doesn’t have to be complicated by legalities – allow us to help you navigate the world of Party Wall Awards with ease.
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