Party Wall Notices
Before starting any building work covered by the Party Wall Act, you must serve written notice on your neighbours. Here is everything you need to know.
The Three Types of Party Wall Notice
The type of notice required depends on the nature of your works. Most projects trigger one or more of the following:
New Wall on the Boundary
When you intend to build a new wall astride or at the line of junction between two properties.
Works to an Existing Party Wall
When you intend to cut into, raise, repair, underpin, or demolish and rebuild an existing party wall or party fence wall.
Excavation Near a Neighbouring Building
When you intend to excavate within 3 metres of a neighbouring structure (or 6 metres if the excavation depth exceeds the neighbour's foundation depth).
Common Questions
What happens after I serve a notice?
Your neighbour has 14 days to respond. They can consent (works can proceed after 1 month), dissent (appointing surveyors to produce an Award), or do nothing — which is treated as a dissent.
Can I serve the notice myself?
Yes — the Act does not require a surveyor to serve notices. However, incorrectly drafted or served notices are invalid and can cause significant delays. We handle this for you as part of every instruction.
What if my neighbour ignores the notice?
If there is no response within 14 days, a dispute is deemed to have arisen. Surveyors must be appointed and a Party Wall Award produced before works can begin.
Do I need a notice if my neighbour has already consented verbally?
Yes. Verbal consent has no legal standing under the Act. The notice and written consent must follow the statutory process to be valid.
We prepare and serve all notice types
Notices served within 72 hours of instruction. Fixed price, no hidden fees.
Get a Free Quote →