Blogs
End of Terrace to Mid-Terrace: Can You Claim Compensation Under the Party Wall Act 1996?
Wednesday 8th January 2025
Carl O'Boyle BSc MRICS FCIOB MFPWS
If you own an end-of-terrace property and your neighbour obtains planning permission to build on their site, effectively changing your property’s classification from an end-of-terrace to a mid-terrace, you may wonder if you are entitled to compensation under the Party Wall etc. Act 1996.
The short answer is no, you are not entitled to compensation under the Party Wall Act purely for the change in classification of your property. The Party Wall Act is designed to deal with specific matters related to building work on or near a boundary, including the following:
Party wall works: Cutting into or altering a shared (party) wall.
Excavation: Within specified distances of a neighbour’s foundations.
Construction of a new wall at the boundary.
If your neighbour’s proposed works fall under any of these categories, they are required to serve the appropriate party wall notice, and you have the right to appoint a party wall surveyor. You could potentially claim compensation (referred to as an award) for any damage caused to your property by their works.
However, the change in status of your property from end-of-terrace to mid-terrace is a planning issue, not something governed by the Party Wall Act. If you believe this change affects your property value or amenity, you may wish to:
- Object during the planning process if it is still ongoing.
- Seek legal advice about possible claims under property law or nuisance.
Would you like help drafting an objection letter or understanding how this might affect your property value or rights?
