Party Wall Guides

Plain-English guides to the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 — from understanding what it covers to serving your own notice.

What Is the Party Wall Act?

Learn what the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 covers, when it applies to your building works, and how to comply without paying for a surveyor.

Updated 15 January 2025 Read →

Do I Need a Party Wall Agreement?

Find out whether your home improvement project legally requires a party wall agreement under the Party Wall etc. Act 1996, with worked examples.

Updated 1 February 2025 Read →

What Is a Party Wall Award?

A party wall award is the formal document that allows building work to go ahead when neighbours disagree. Learn what it contains and who pays for it.

Updated 20 January 2025 Read →

How Much Does a Party Wall Agreement Cost?

Party wall surveyor fees typically run £700–£2,000 per notice. Learn exactly what drives costs up—and how to serve your own notice for free.

Updated 10 January 2025 Read →

Can You Get a Party Wall Agreement Without a Surveyor?

Yes—if your neighbour consents in writing within 14 days you don't need a surveyor at all. Here is exactly how to do it yourself.

Updated 1 February 2025 Read →

How to Handle a Party Wall Dispute

Party wall disputes arise when neighbours dissent or don't respond. Learn the step-by-step process for resolving them and avoiding costly court action.

Updated 18 January 2025 Read →

Who Pays for a Party Wall Surveyor?

The building owner normally pays all surveyor fees—but there are important exceptions. Learn the rules so you are not caught out.

Updated 25 January 2025 Read →

Are Party Wall Agreements Compulsory?

Party wall notices are legally required for notifiable works under the 1996 Act—but the full formal agreement process only kicks in if neighbours dissent.

Updated 30 January 2025 Read →

How to Serve a Party Wall Notice

A complete step-by-step guide to serving a party wall notice correctly—what to include, how to deliver it, and what happens next.

Updated 1 February 2025 Read →

Where Are Party Wall Agreements Registered?

Party wall awards are not registered at Land Registry—they are held by the parties and their solicitors. Here is what you need to know when buying or selling.

Updated 22 January 2025 Read →

Can a Party Wall Agreement Be Verbal?

A verbal party wall agreement is legally unenforceable under the 1996 Act. Learn why you must always get consent in writing and how to do it.

Updated 28 January 2025 Read →

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