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What is a Party Wall?

A party wall is a shared wall or structure between two properties. If you're planning work near or on a boundary, the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 may require you to notify neighbours in advance.

Shorplans can guide you through the process — from serving notices to securing agreements — ensuring your project stays compliant and on schedule.

At Shorplans, we take the stress out of Party Wall matters by ensuring your project is fully compliant with the Party Wall Act 1996. Our expert team can:

 

  • Assess your project and identify whether Party Wall notices are required

  • Prepare and serve legally compliant Party Wall Notices to adjoining owners

  • Act as the building owner’s surveyor or liaise with the neighbour’s surveyor if appointed

  • Produce and agree Party Wall Awards (agreements) where necessary

  • Document existing conditions of neighbouring properties to protect both parties

  • Advise on timelines to avoid delays to your project


Whether you're planning an extension, basement, loft conversion or structural work near a boundary, our experienced team ensures everything runs smoothly and lawfully — giving you peace of mind and keeping your build on track.

Serving Party Wall Notices

The building owner must serve formal Party Wall notices to all adjoining owners, informing them of the proposed construction work.

Notices are typically served at least two months before the planned start date, but this can vary.

Adjoining Owner's Response

Adjoining owners have the option to consent, dissent, or do nothing in response to the notice.

If they dissent or do nothing, a dispute is considered to have arisen, and the Party Wall Surveyor may need to get involved.

Party Wall Surveyor's Assesment

If a dispute arises, the Party Wall Surveyor assesses the potential impact of the construction on the adjoining property.

They may conduct site visits, review plans, and consider structural implications.

Creating Party Wall Awards

In cases of disagreement, the Party Wall Surveyor creates Party Wall Awards – legally binding documents detailing the rights and responsibilities of each party.

The Awards include specifics about the construction work, access arrangements, and any necessary protective measures.

Construction Begins

Once all necessary agreements are in place, the building owner can proceed with the construction work as outlined in the Party Wall Awards.

The 5 Steps to Party Wall Services

1. Serving Party Wall Notices

2. Adjoining Owner's Response

3. Party Wall Surveyor's Assesment

4. Creating Party Wall Awards

5. Construction Begins

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Party Wall Notice

Fee per building owner:

from £50+vat

If you require a dependable proficient party wall notice service, our team of experts is well-equipped to handle all your party wall needs, including serving notices and resolving disputes. We invite you to contact us to learn more about our comprehensive of services.

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Party Wall Award

Fee per building owner:

from £1000+vat

Undertaking building work that affects a party wall requires obtaining a party wall award, which is a agreement between two or more property owners share a common boundary. To ensure that the process of obtaining this agreement is carried out legally and without any disputes, it is recommended to seek the assistance of a Party Wall Award service.

 

These services provide expert advice and guidance on the party act, and ensure that all necessary steps are taken to protect rights of all parties. Contact us about our Party Wall Award service today to ensure that your building work is carried out in compliance with the relevant legal requirements.

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Schedule of Conditions

Fee per building owner:

from £350+vat

A schedule of conditions service is a detailed report that outlines the condition of a property before any construction work begins. It is an essential document that helps to protect both the property owner and the contractor.

 

Our team of experts can provide you with a comprehensive schedule of conditions service to ensure that your project runs smoothly and without any unexpected surprises. Contact us today to learn more about our services.

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Expert Surveyors Local to You: Tailored Solutions & Guidance

Whether you're looking to extend your home, design a new build, or transform your space, we have the expertise to guide you from concept to completion.

To get started, select your borough for more information about the services we offer in your area.

 

From local regulations to planning insights, we ensure your project aligns with your borough’s specific requirements while bringing your vision to life.

What you can expect from us

Party Wall Notice Preparation & Serving

Serving a Party Wall Notice is a critical first step in any construction project that affects a shared wall or boundary. Shorplans ensures that your Party Wall Notice is properly drafted and legally compliant, whether it's a:​​ Party Structure Notice for alterations to a shared structure, such as removing a chimney breast or cutting into a party wall. Notice of Adjacent Excavation when digging within close proximity to neighboring foundations. Line of Junction Notice for building a new wall on or near the boundary line. Properly preparing and serving these notices reduces the risk of disputes and helps keep your project on track.

Comprehensive Property Surveys

We offer detailed property condition surveys before any construction work begins. This survey documents the current condition of both your property and any adjoining properties, serving as a crucial reference point if any issues or damage claims arise. Our thorough reports ensure all parties are protected during and after the construction process.

Drafting Legally Binding Party Wall Agreements

A Party Wall Agreement, also known as a Party Wall Award, is essential for any project that affects a shared wall or boundary. We specialize in drafting detailed Party Wall Agreements that clearly outline the scope of the work, timelines, responsibilities of each party, and a schedule of condition to safeguard against future disputes. This legally binding document ensures that your project adheres to the Party Wall Act, protecting both your property and your neighbors.

Expert Guidance & Clear Visbility

Navigating the complexities of Party Wall matters can be challenging. At Shorplans, we provide ongoing support and expert advice from start to finish, helping you understand your rights and obligations under the Party Wall Act. Whether you're the building owner or the adjoining owner, our team is here to guide you through each step, from serving notices to handling any objections or concerns that may arise.

Party Wall

We are dedicated to providing exceptional surveying services to our clients. With our expertise and attention to detail, we ensure that all works involving The Party Wall Act 1996 are followed meticulously.

Our team of experienced surveyors is committed to delivering a stress-free service, guiding you through the entire process. Whether you need advice, assistance, or a comprehensive survey, we are here to help. Contact us today to discuss your project and discover how our expert team can meet your surveying needs.​

Click through below to learn more about party-wall services we offer at Shorplans.

Work with Us

Thinking about starting a project or want to learn more? Speak to our team today and book in a free no-obligation quotation.

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