Party Wall Award
At ECOHDS Surveyors, we offer professional assistance with Party Wall Awards, ensuring that property owners and neighbors comply with the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 when undertaking building work that affects shared walls, boundaries, or structures. Our experienced surveyors are here to guide you through the process, ensuring that disputes are resolved fairly and efficiently.
What Is a Party Wall Award?
A Party Wall Award is a legally binding document that outlines the rights and responsibilities of property owners when work is carried out on or near a shared (party) wall, boundary, or structure. This award is typically required when:
- You are planning to build, demolish, or excavate near a boundary or shared wall.
- The work involves cutting into or altering a party wall or structure.
- Neighbors are concerned about potential damage or disruption to their property.
The Party Wall Award sets out how the work should be conducted, including the type of work, timescales, and any precautions to prevent damage to neighboring properties. It helps protect the interests of both parties involved, ensuring that the work is carried out lawfully and with minimal disruption.
Why Choose ECOHDS Surveyors for Your Party Wall Award?
Expert Guidance
Our experienced surveyors specialize in the Party Wall etc. Act 1996, ensuring you receive expert advice on your rights and obligations under the law. We help both property owners and adjoining neighbors understand the process and avoid unnecessary disputes.Impartial and Fair Resolutions
As impartial Party Wall Surveyors, we act in the interests of both parties, ensuring that the award is fair, reasonable, and legally compliant. Our goal is to protect the rights of all parties involved while minimizing conflict.Comprehensive Party Wall Services
From serving Party Wall Notices to drafting and issuing the Party Wall Award, we manage the entire process, ensuring compliance with the law and preventing delays in your project.Conflict Resolution
In cases where disputes arise between neighbors, we provide a structured approach to resolving issues, ensuring the work proceeds while maintaining good relations between all parties.
The Party Wall Award Process
Serving a Party Wall Notice
The process begins with one party (the building owner) serving a Party Wall Notice to their neighbors (the adjoining owners), outlining the proposed work. This must be done at least two months before starting work.Appointing a Surveyor
If the adjoining owner consents to the notice, the process moves forward. If they dissent or fail to respond, a Party Wall Surveyor is appointed to draft the Party Wall Award. Each party can either appoint their own surveyor or agree to a single joint surveyor.Drafting the Award
The Party Wall Award outlines the specifics of the proposed work, sets out the rights of both parties, and includes any necessary precautions to prevent damage or disruption. It will also include details of compensation or repair obligations if damage occurs.Issuing the Award
Once the Party Wall Award is finalized, it is served on both parties. This award is legally binding, allowing the work to commence under agreed terms while protecting the interests of all parties involved.
When Do You Need a Party Wall Award?
- Building Near a Boundary: If you are planning construction work that affects a shared wall, boundary, or structure, a Party Wall Award ensures that you comply with the Party Wall etc. Act 1996.
- Excavations Near Neighboring Properties: If you are excavating near a neighbor’s foundation or boundary, a Party Wall Award helps prevent disputes and ensures that precautions are taken.
- Dispute Resolution: If neighbors have concerns about your construction work, a Party Wall Award provides a fair and legal framework to resolve disputes and protect both parties.
Contact Us Today
For expert assistance with Party Wall Awards, trust ECOHDS Surveyors to ensure compliance with the law and protect your property interests. Contact us today to discuss your project and learn more about how we can help.