A “party wall agreement” is the common term used by homeowners, but the correct legal name is a Party Wall Award, a binding document prepared by a surveyor under the Party Wall etc. Act 1996. This article uses both terms interchangeably to ensure clarity for homeowners and legal accuracy.
If you're planning an extension, loft conversion, or other building work near a shared wall or boundary, you may need a party wall agreement.
This simple guide explains when the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 applies, what your responsibilities are, and how to protect your home and your timeline from unexpected disputes.
Understanding Party Wall Awards (Agreements)
A Party Wall Award is a legally binding document that sets out how building work affecting a shared wall or boundary should be carried out. It’s prepared by a Party Wall Surveyor under the Party Wall etc. Act 1996.
It applies to works such as:
Building an extension up to or on the boundary
Loft conversions involving steel beams into a shared wall
Removing chimney breasts
Excavations within 3 or 6 metres of a neighbouring structure or building
How Party Wall Awards protect your property project investment
Party Wall Awards aren’t just legal formalities – they’re a way to protect the time, money, and relationships you’re investing into your home improvement.
They help:
Prevent delays caused by neighbour objections or disputes
Document the existing condition of the neighbouring property
Clarify how access, noise, and timings will be handled
Reduce the risk of claims or costly repairs during or after your build
Whether you’re building a side extension or converting your loft, this agreement ensures your project can move ahead smoothly – and that you’re not exposed to unnecessary legal or financial risk.
Do I really need one?
Not every home project requires a party wall agreement, but many do. The key question is whether your planned work will:
Affect a shared (party) wall
Be built at or across the boundary line
Involve excavation near a neighbouring structure or building
If it does, the law requires you to serve a formal Notice to your neighbour(s). If they dissent – or simply don’t reply – the party wall process is triggered.
What happens if I skip it?
Don’t let a missing Award derail your renovation. Explore our party wall services and stay one step ahead.
Ignoring the Act can lead to serious consequences:
Injunctions that stop your work mid-project
Legal disputes and unexpected costs
Delayed timelines and unhappy neighbours
Even if your neighbour initially agrees, disputes can still arise during or after the work. A Party Wall Award protects both sides.
Can’t I just speak to my neighbour?
Absolutely – and we recommend it. A friendly chat upfront can smooth the process. But even with verbal agreement, you’ll still need to serve a formal Notice and follow the legal process if the works fall under the Act.
Your neighbour’s consent must be recorded properly, or it may not hold legal weight later on.
What if they say no?
If your neighbour dissents (or doesn’t respond within 14 days), this doesn’t stop your work – it simply triggers the appointment of Party Wall Surveyors to ensure everything is done fairly and safely.
The surveyor(s) will:
Agree how and when the work will be done
Record the neighbour’s property condition beforehand
Resolve any disputes professionally
In most cases, the building owner pays the surveyor fees.
What if there’s a party wall dispute?
Sometimes, even when you follow the correct steps, disagreements happen. These are known as party wall disputes, and they’re more common than you might think – especially when building work is close to another property.
Common causes of disputes include:
Work starting without serving proper notice
Concerns over vibration, dust, or structural movement
Claims of cracking, damp, or cosmetic damage to the neighbour’s home
Disagreement over timing or access
The good news is that the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 provides a structured, legal way to resolve disputes fairly and without personal fallout. Appointed surveyors act impartially – even if chosen by one party – and their decisions are legally binding.
How disputes are resolved:
Each party can appoint their own surveyor, or agree to use one impartial surveyor
A Schedule of Condition is typically prepared before work starts
The Party Wall Award outlines how works should proceed and resolves any concerns
If the two surveyors can’t agree, a Third Surveyor is called in to make the final decision. This ensures neither side is left in limbo.
Whether you’re facing a dispute or simply want to avoid one, professional advice early on can make all the difference.
Do you have a dispute? Contact our honest, approachable experts today to discuss your next steps.
Do I need a Party Wall Surveyor?
Our RICS-qualified surveyors offer quick, impartial guidance to help you stay compliant – call our honest, approachable experts for tailored advice. Or, contact us for a quote today [/party-wall-surveyor-agreement]
Yes, if your neighbour dissents. You and your neighbour can each appoint your own surveyor, or agree to use one impartial surveyor for both.
Even if everyone agrees, many owners choose to appoint a surveyor to prepare a Schedule of Condition – a formal record of the neighbour’s property before work begins. This protects both parties if questions of damage arise later.
Planning a loft conversion, extension, or basement dig? We can help.
A party wall agreement might sound like extra paperwork – but it’s there to protect your project, your property, and your peace of mind.
If you're unsure whether the Act applies to your planned works, it’s worth asking a professional. Getting it right early can save you time, money, and stress.
Trusted by homeowners across London and the South East
“As novices to the world of party wall agreements and loft conversions, Steven was absolutely fantastic. I cannot emphasise this enough. His patience, thoroughness, attention to detail and step-by-step guidance through what was a stressful process was out of this world. The service that Steven (and Arnold & Baldwin) provided was nothing short of sensational. I cannot recommend Arnold & Baldwin highly enough – a pleasure and delight to deal with. I will certainly be using them for future projects.”
– Homeowner in South London
Need expert advice?
Arnold & Baldwin are RICS-qualified surveyors with deep experience in party wall matters. We offer:
Free initial advice on whether your project falls under the Act
Tailored party wall services for homeowners
Clear communication with you and your neighbours
Ready to speak with a party wall expert? Contact us today
