Whenever property owners plan their construction work near shared boundaries, they do not take into consideration the legal obligations. This is where the party wall surveyors come into the picture. They assist in avoiding conflicts, safeguarding neighbouring buildings, and even make sure the building projects are in line with legal requirements. Whether you go for the extension of your home, renovating a common wall, or construction near another building, the role of a party wall surveyor can be of great help. How? Let’s know!
What Is a Party Wall and Why Does It Matter?
A party wall refers to a wall, fence or structure that is shared by two or more adjacent properties. It may also involve the use of boundary walls and floors between flats. Most of the time, homeowners do not realise that an intended construction work has an impact on a party wall.
This is important as any job that is conducted on a common structure influences the safety and stability of the adjacent property. All the usual risks include cracks, structural movement, and water leakage. The Party Wall etc. The Party Wall etc. Act 1996 was enacted in the UK to curb such issues. This legislation ensures the safety of the building owners as well as adjoining owners since clear rules are established before starting the construction.
Who Is a Party Wall Surveyor?
The party wall surveyors are skilled individuals with a specialisation in solving issues concerning common walls and boundaries. They are primarily meant to be impartial and see both sides of the case go through the legal process.
The party wall surveyors, unlike ordinary surveyors, are concerned with dispute matters, property inspections, and legal records. They also take care of the rights of the individual undertaking the work as well as the neighbour who is being affected by the work. Their self-directed nature prevents confrontation and encourages equal results.
When Do You Need a Party Wall Surveyor?
Not all building projects will demand a party wall surveyor. You will most likely need one when your work involves:
- Construction of a new wall bordering or on an edge.
- Adding a property to a building of the neighbour.
- Cutting through a common wall of beams or supports.
- Cutting in proximity to the foundation of the nearby houses.
- Transformation of lofts that touch shared walls.
A surveyor may not be necessary in case your neighbour agrees in writing to what you intend to do. But in the case of any objections or fears, a party wall surveyor has to be appointed. A surveyor at an early age in a number of situations prevents various conflicts in the future.
Duties and Responsibilities of a Party Wall Surveyor
A party wall surveyor performs a number of significant roles during the construction process. Preparation and serving of party walls notices is one of their primary duties. A thorough investigation of the adjacent property is also done by the surveyor. This involves documenting the state of walls, ceilings and structures before the commencement of work.
This documentation prevents losses in case of any damage in the future. The other important responsibility is the creation of the Party Wall Award. It is a legal document describing the way the work should be conducted. It comprises work time, security and access control, and the cost of repairing the damage. After being issued, both parties have to adhere to it.
The Party Wall Agreement Process Explained
The party wall procedure starts with the owner of the building giving a notice to the adjacent owner. They have to give notice at least one month or two months in advance of the commencement of work based on the nature of the project.
Upon being given the notice, the neighbour has 3 choices. They may accept the work, refuse and have their own surveyor, or take to share a common surveyor. In case of disagreement, both sides will have surveyors who will collaborate in solving problems.
After the inspections are done, the surveyor makes up the Party Wall Award. Construction is only allowed to commence after this document is signed. This formal procedure brings in transparency and minimises misunderstandings.
Common Mistakes to Avoid in Party Wall Matters
There are numerous errors that can be avoided by many owners of the property when it comes to the party wall.
- A mistake that is often made is to commence employment without proper notice. This may cause legal wrangles and a project shutdown.
- The other fault is the selection of unqualified or inexperienced surveyors. This can lead to wrongful documentation and poor legal security. This is not legally acceptable and some of the owners believe verbal permission suffices.
- Another issue is neglecting trivial matters that are brought up by the neighbours. A little problem may escalate into a big controversy without proper management. So, here, professional advice at an early age prevents such expensive mistakes.
Hire a Party Wall Surveyor for Legal Construction
Party wall surveyors are very important in safeguarding the property owners and ensuring that there is peace between neighbours. They are in charge of ensuring the legalit construction work, reducing the risks and finding a fair solution to disagreements. You will be professionally guided, legally secure and have peace of mind by having a qualified surveyor.
