Party Wall Explained: 10 Essential Questions Homeowners Ask
posted 12th November 2025
Introduction
If you’re planning home improvements such as a loft conversion, rear extension, or basement excavation, you may need to comply with the Party Wall etc. Act 1996. The Act protects you and your neighbours by setting out a legal process before works begin.
But for many homeowners, the process can seem complex — particularly when it comes to understanding what a party wall surveyor actually does and when you need one.
At Tayross Associates, a London-based chartered building surveying practice specialising in party wall surveying, we’ve answered the top 10 questions homeowners frequently ask before starting work.
1. What is a party wall?
A party wall is a shared structure that sits on or near the boundary between two properties. It can include the wall dividing semi-detached or terraced houses, garden walls (known as party fence walls), or even floors and ceilings between flats.
If it separates two properties, there’s a good chance it falls under the Party Wall Act.
2. What is the Party Wall etc. Act 1996?
The Party Wall Act provides a framework for preventing and resolving disputes when building work affects a shared wall or boundary. It applies to activities such as cutting into or raising a wall, excavating near foundations, or building along the boundary line.
It ensures both property owners’ rights are protected throughout the works.
3. When does the Act apply?
You must follow the Act if your proposed works involve:
- Altering or cutting into a shared wall
- Building a new wall on the boundary line
- Excavating within 3 or 6 metres of a neighbour’s property (depending on depth)
Common examples include extensions, loft conversions, and basement projects.
4. Who is the Building Owner and who is the Adjoining Owner?
The Building Owner is the person carrying out the works. The Adjoining Owner is the neighbour whose property might be affected. Both parties have rights and obligations under the Act, and each can appoint their own surveyor if needed.
5. What is a party wall notice?
A party wall notice is a formal written notice served by the Building Owner to inform the Adjoining Owner of proposed works covered by the Act. It must describe the works, include plans or drawings where necessary, and provide the neighbour with time to consent or dissent.
6. When should I serve a party wall notice?
You must serve notice at least one or two months before works start — two months for works directly to a party wall and one month for excavations. Serving notice early avoids delays and helps maintain good neighbour relations.
7. Can I serve the notice myself?
While you can serve a notice yourself, many homeowners choose a party wall surveyor to ensure it’s correctly drafted and legally valid. Mistakes can invalidate the notice, leading to delays and additional costs.
8. What happens if I don’t serve notice?
Failing to serve notice can result in your neighbour seeking an injunction to stop the works. You may also be liable for any resulting damage or legal fees. It’s always safer to follow the Act from the start.
9. How long does the process take?
Once the notice is served, the neighbour has 14 days to respond. If they dissent or don’t reply, surveyors are appointed to prepare a Party Wall Award. This process usually takes 2–8 weeks, depending on project complexity and communication between parties.
10. Why should I use a professional party wall surveyor?
A professional surveyor ensures compliance with the Party Wall Act, drafts valid notices, and acts impartially to protect both sides’ interests. They also help prevent costly disputes and delays.
At Tayross Associates, our chartered surveyors have extensive experience managing party wall matters across London, providing clear, practical advice to keep your project running smoothly.
Conclusion
Understanding these key questions before starting your project can save time, money, and stress. Whether you’re planning a home extension or structural works near a boundary, getting professional advice early is essential.
If you need guidance from an experienced party wall surveyor in London, contact Tayross Associates today.
📍 Tayross Associates, 2nd Floor, Monument House, 215 Marsh Road, Pinner, Middlesex, HA5 5NE
📞 079 7682 0628
📧 Carl@tayross.com
