If you`re planning on doing any construction or renovation work that involves the party wall, you`ll need to have a Party Wall Agreement in place. This is a document that sets out the rights and responsibilities of all parties involved in the project.
The Party Wall etc. Act 1996 is the legislation that governs party walls and agreements in England and Wales. It provides guidance on how to prepare and serve the necessary notices, as well as the procedures to follow if there is a dispute.
The government has released advice on party wall agreements to ensure that everyone is aware of their obligations when it comes to party walls. This advice covers the role of the party wall surveyor, what to include in a party wall notice, and the steps to take when responding to a notice.
The first step is to determine whether your project requires a Party Wall Agreement. If you`re unsure, it`s best to consult with a party wall surveyor who can help you understand your obligations under the Act.
Once you`ve determined that you need a Party Wall Agreement, the next step is to prepare and serve the necessary notices. These notices inform the affected parties of the proposed work and give them the opportunity to agree or disagree with the party wall arrangements.
If a dispute arises, it`s important to follow the procedures outlined in the Act. This may involve appointing an independent party wall surveyor to help resolve the dispute.
By following the government`s advice on party wall agreements, you can ensure that your project runs smoothly and that all parties involved are aware of their obligations. Remember that failing to comply with the Act can result in legal action, so it`s important to take the time to understand your responsibilities.