Tayross Associates Chartered Building Surveyors | Party Wall Rates London | Party Wall Surveyor West London | Building/Structural RICS Survey London

If your neighbour is planning building works—especially something like a 6-metre single-storey rear extension—it’s completely normal to feel concerned. Questions about damage, foundations, boundaries and disruption often come up, and knowing what to check early can prevent bigger problems later.

Here’s a practical, calm checklist I regularly share with homeowners.

1. Find Out What Permission They’re Actually Using

Start by understanding what approval the neighbour is relying on. Politely ask whether the extension is being built under:

• Full planning permission, or

• Permitted Development (PD) using the larger home extension / prior approval process.

A 6m rear extension can sometimes be permitted development, but it usually requires prior approval, where the council consults neighbouring owners.

• You can also check this yourself:

• Visit your local council’s planning portal

• Search the property address

• Look for:

1. Planning applications or prior approval submissions

1. Approved drawings and any conditions attached

2. Check Whether the Party Wall Act Applies

The Party Wall etc. Act 1996 may apply if the works involve:

• Alterations to a party wall or party fence wall

• Building on or at the boundary

• Excavating foundations close to your property (within 3m or 6m, depending on depth)

If the Act applies, you should receive a Party Wall Notice.

If you do, you generally have three options:

Consent (only if you’re genuinely comfortable)

Dissent and agree one surveyor

Dissent and appoint your own surveyor (often the safest option for larger works)

Where surveyors are appointed, they can agree a Party Wall Award, setting out how the works must be carried out, protections, access arrangements, working hours, and how any damage will be dealt with.

3. Get a Schedule of Condition Before Major Works Start

A Schedule of Condition is a written and photographic record of your property before works begin.

It usually covers:

• Walls, ceilings and floors inside your home

• External walls, paving, fences and garden areas near the works

This “before” record is invaluable if cracking or damage appears later. Schedules of Condition are commonly prepared as part of the party wall process.

4. Ask for the Basics in Writing

Keeping things in writing helps avoid misunderstandings and keeps discussions calm.

You can reasonably ask for:

• Drawings showing the size and position of the extension

• Details of foundation type, especially near your house

• How your property will be protected (dust, vibration, temporary weathering)

• Contractor details and public liability insurance

• Proposed start date, duration and working hours

5. While Works Are Ongoing: Watch for Warning Signs

Keep a simple log with dates and photos if you notice:

• New or worsening cracks

• Sticking doors or sloping floors

• Excessive vibration

• Water leaks or damp

• Damage to fences, paving, drains or gutters

• Any part of the works crossing the boundary (foundations, guttering, render, scaffolding)

Early records make issues much easier to resolve.

6. Remember Building Regulations Are Separate

Even if the works are permitted development, Building Regulations approval is still required for:

• Structure and foundations

• Drainage

• Overall safety and compliance

If you have concerns about structural safety, Building Control is the correct route to raise them.

7. If You’re Uncomfortable, Take the Safe Route

If something doesn’t feel right:

• Don’t rely on verbal assurances

• Make sure a Schedule of Condition is in place

• If the Party Wall Act applies, ensure a proper Party Wall Award is agreed before major excavation or structural works start

Final Thought

Most neighbour building projects go smoothly—but problems usually arise when things aren’t clarified early. A bit of checking, paperwork and professional input at the start can save months of stress later.

If you’re unsure whether the Party Wall Act applies or want advice on the safest way forward, getting early guidance can make all the difference.