Expert Party Wall Awards
The Party Wall etc. Act 1996 provides a framework for preventing and resolving disputes in relation to party walls, boundary walls and excavations near neighbouring buildings. Understanding your legal obligations is essential for a smooth construction process.
The Party Wall Award Process
01
Initial Notice
We draft and serve formal Party Wall Notices to adjoining owners, ensuring complete legal accuracy from the outset.
02
Condition Survey
A thorough Schedule of Condition is recorded for neighboring properties to provide an authoritative pre-work record.
03
Award Preparation
Our surveyors draft the legally binding Award, regulating how works are executed to protect all parties.
04
Final Service
The Award is formally served to both owners, granting legal authorization to commence the specified works.
Why Choose PW Surveyors?
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Expert RICS chartered oversight ensuring absolute legal compliance and protection for both parties.
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Comprehensive Schedules of Condition providing an authoritative record and absolute peace of mind.
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Clear, professional resolution of disputes through legally binding and technical Awards.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is a Party Wall Award actually needed?
An Award is required if you are carrying out works to a shared wall, excavating within 3 or 6 meters of a neighbor's structure, or building a new wall on the boundary line, provided the neighbor does not give written consent to the initial notice.
Who pays the surveyor's fees for the Award?
Typically, the building owner (the person undertaking the works) is responsible for all costs associated with the Party Wall Award, including the fees for their own surveyor and the neighbor's appointed surveyor.
How long does it take to obtain a Party Wall Award?
The timeline varies based on the complexity of the project and neighbor response, but it generally takes between 4 to 6 weeks from the point a dispute is deemed to have arisen and surveyors are appointed.
Can a neighbor prevent me from doing building works?
Under the Party Wall etc. Act 1996, a neighbor cannot stop you from exercising your legal rights to build, but they can ensure the works are carried out in a way that protects their property through the Award process.
What happens if damage occurs during the works?
The Party Wall Award includes provisions for damage. By having a Schedule of Condition completed before starting, we have clear evidence to ensure any necessary repairs are identified and handled fairly.
Ready to Protect Your Property?
Secure your Party Wall Award today with expert guidance from our RICS chartered surveyors. We ensure full compliance and professional peace of mind.