The Party Wall etc. Act 1996

The Act came into force on 1 July 1997 and applies throughout England and Wales.

 

It provides a framework for preventing and resolving disputes in relation to party walls, boundary walls and excavations near neighbouring buildings. It is based upon some tried and tested provisions of the London Building Acts, which applied in inner London for many decades before the Act came into force.

 

Anyone intending to carryout work of the kinds described in the Act must give Adjoining Owners notice of their intentions.

 

It is often helpful in understanding the principles of the Act if owners consider themselves joint owners of the whole of a party wall rather than the sole owner of half or part of it.

 

Adjoining Owners can agree with the Building Owner's proposals or reach agreement with the Building Owner on changes in the way the works are to be carried out, and in their timing. Where there is no written consent or agreement, the Act provides for the resolution of 'disputes'.