Blogs
Understanding Party Wall Works and the Importance of Providing Notice
Wednesday 12th February 2025
Carl O'Boyle BSc MRICS FCIOB MFPWS
When undertaking party wall works, one of the key legal considerations is whether access to a neighbour’s land is required. While there is no statutory notice period to commence works under the Party Wall etc. Act 1996, if access to a neighbour’s land is necessary, Section 8 of the Act mandates that you provide a minimum of two weeks’ notice.
How to Prepare a Notice for Access to Neighbouring Land
When preparing a notice to inform a neighbour of impending party wall works requiring access to their land, it is essential to draft a formal and comprehensive letter. Below is a suggested template that can be adapted based on specific project details:
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, Postcode]
[Email Address]
[Today’s Date]
[Neighbour’s Name]
[Neighbour’s Address]
[City, Postcode]
Subject: Notice of Intended Party Wall Works under the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 – Two Weeks’ Notice
Dear [Neighbour’s Name],
I am writing to inform you of our intention to undertake notifiable works on the party wall or requiring access to your property to complete we share, as outlined in the Party Wall etc. Act 1996. The proposed works involve [briefly describe the nature of the works, e.g., inserting a damp proof course, underpinning, etc.], and are planned to commence on [start date].
In accordance with the provisions of the Act, we will require access to your property at [specific location on the neighbour's land] to safely and efficiently carry out these works. We anticipate that this access will be required from [start date of access] to [end date of access], between the hours of [start time] and [end time].
The works have been planned to ensure minimal disruption and will be carried out in compliance with all relevant safety and building regulations. We will also ensure that any disturbance to your property is kept to the absolute minimum.
To discuss this further or if you have any concerns or conditions regarding the proposed access, please feel free to contact me at [your phone number] or via email at [your email address]. We are also open to arranging a meeting at a convenient time to discuss the upcoming works and address any issues you might have.
Enclosed with this letter are:
- A detailed plan of the proposed works.
- A schedule outlining the anticipated work phases and timings.
- Contact information for the project manager responsible for overseeing the works.
Please acknowledge receipt of this notice by signing and returning the enclosed copy.
Thank you for your cooperation and understanding.
Yours sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Printed Name]
Make sure to adjust the details to suit your specific situation.
