If you are planning to carry out work on a detached house that is situated close to the boundary with your neighbour’s property, it is important to ensure that you have a party wall agreement in place. This is a legal document that sets out the rights and obligations of both you and your neighbour with regards to the work that is being carried out.

What is a party wall agreement?

A party wall agreement is a contract between you and your neighbour that outlines the proposed works that you intend to carry out and how they will affect the party wall (the wall that separates your property from your neighbour’s). The agreement will specify the responsibilities and liabilities of both you and your neighbour for any damage or disruption that may occur during the work.

Do I need a party wall agreement for a detached house?

If you are planning to carry out work that is likely to affect the party wall, or the foundations of your neighbour’s property, you must obtain a party wall agreement before starting work. This applies to both semi-detached and detached properties, as long as the work being carried out is likely to affect the party wall.

What kind of work requires a party wall agreement?

A party wall agreement is required for any work that involves:

– Building a new wall along the boundary line between your property and your neighbour’s

– Cutting into, or removing a party wall

– Carrying out alterations to a party wall, such as installing beams

– Excavating near a party wall, such as for foundations

– Demolishing and rebuilding part or all of a party wall

How do I obtain a party wall agreement?

To obtain a party wall agreement, you must serve a formal notice on your neighbour, outlining the proposed works and requesting that they agree to the proposed works or appoint a surveyor. This notice must be served at least two months before the work is due to commence.

If your neighbour agrees to the proposed works, you can proceed with the work without appointing a surveyor. However, if your neighbour dissents, you will need to appoint a party wall surveyor to draw up the party wall agreement.

It is important to note that the cost of the surveyor will be borne by the party carrying out the work.

In conclusion, if you are planning to carry out work on a detached house that is close to the boundary with your neighbour’s property, it is crucial to have a party wall agreement in place. This agreement will ensure that both you and your neighbour are protected from any damage or disruption that may occur during the work, and will provide a clear understanding of the responsibilities and liabilities of both parties.