Blogs
Successfully Navigating Section 6(1) Party Wall Works in Central London
Tuesday 17th December 2024
Carl O'Boyle BSc MRICS FCIOB MFPWS
The grandeur of London’s historic terraces brings beauty and charm to the capital but also unique challenges when construction or development works are involved. Recently, I had the pleasure of managing party wall matters under the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 for a series of stunning properties in Central London.
The Scope of the Project
The works fell under Section 6(1) of the Party Wall Act, concerning excavations near neighbouring properties. These Georgian or early Victorian properties, with their ornate facades and structural delicacies, required meticulous planning and communication to ensure all parties were protected, while allowing the client’s construction programme to progress smoothly.
The Challenge
The challenge was clear: securing agreements with six different adjoining owners to permit the excavation works. Each property, its owner, and their surveyors presented individual considerations:
• The proximity of excavations to their foundations.
• Protecting the ornate external features and structural integrity of the terraces.
• Minimising disruption in this high-value, densely populated location.
The Strategy
Success hinged on clear communication, diligent planning, and proactive negotiation:
1. Early Engagement: I approached all adjoining owners early in the process, explaining the scope and reassuring them with thorough method statements and structural details.
2. Expert Coordination: With multiple adjoining parties, I ensured a consistent flow of information between surveyors, engineers, and the client team.
3. Protective Measures: Detailed schedules of condition were prepared, highlighting the importance of safeguarding the ornate exteriors and interiors of these historic properties.
4. Agreement Timeliness: Using my experience with party wall matters, I managed to reach agreements efficiently without compromising the client’s timeline.
The Outcome
Despite the complexity of working with six separate parties, I was able to secure all party wall agreements, ensuring compliance with the Act and enabling the client’s construction programme to proceed as planned.
This project highlighted the importance of strong, early communication, a clear understanding of the Party Wall Act, and the ability to manage multiple stakeholders in sensitive environments.
Why It Matters
London’s historic properties require a careful balance of legal compliance, structural protection, and construction efficiency. As a party wall surveyor, my goal is to make this process seamless for clients and adjoining owners alike, ensuring mutual confidence and project success.
If you’re considering works near a party wall, such as excavations or structural alterations, early professional advice is key to avoiding disputes and delays.
