Party Walls

Question 1

Which Act deals with party wall issues?

Answer 1

The Party Wall Act etc. 1996

Question 2

What is a party wall?

Answer 2

Boundary wall adjoining properties. Could be a wall split in half, with joint ownership, or, if entirely belonging to one owner, but subject to an easement in favour of other owner to have it maintained as a dividing wall.

Question 3

When does the Party Wall Act apply?

Answer 3

• When an owner of land wishes to build on the boundary line, with an adjoining property and there is no party structure (Party fence wall)
• When an owner wishes to to carry out work to an existing party structure
• Where an owner wishes to carry out certain works of excavation near to a building, or other structure of an adjoining owner.

Question 4

What is a party structure?

Answer 4

Party wall or party floor separating buildings or parts of buildings approached solely by separate stairs or entrances.

Question 5

What is a party fence wall?

Answer 5

A wall (not part of a building) which stands on lands of different owners.

Question 6

What could an adjoining owner do if neighbour has carried out work to a party wall without serving notice?

Answer 6

Seek an injunction. There is no recourse after the works are complete

Question 7

What are the 3 types of party wall notice?

Answer 7

• Party structure notice
• Notice of adjacent excavation
• Line of Junction notice