The Importance of the Party Wall Act to Party Wall Owners

A party wall is just like an ordinary wall of a typical house, but it is shared by two neighbors in an adjoining house. It can also refer to garden walls as long as two neighbors share them. This scenario may be common and natural, but problems can also arise between sharing neighbors. This is why, the Party Wall Act became a very important law. You can find more information here.

What is the Party Wall Act and Why is it Important?

It is commonly called the Party Wall Act 1996 even if it has been enforced in 1997. It is a law that states the shared rights of both party wall owners. And if they have equal rights to the wall, the law also states their equal responsibilities, especially when it comes to planning projects involving the wall they share.

Under the law, owners can freely do what they want with their side of the wall. However, if the project involves party wall acts like demolishing and rebuilding the party wall, underpinning, and other big projects that could affect the other owner, it should be done with the consent of the neighbor sharing the wall with you.

The Party Wall Act 1996 is very important to party wall owners because it ensures that partiality is always observed and that both neighbors can enjoy the equal privileges they share whether or not there are party wall projects one neighbor wants done.

Both neighbors can talk this out personally but even if they reach a verbal agreement, they should still follow the law to put the notice and consent into writing. A party wall surveyor may be required if disputes arise between neighbors.