Since coming into force in 1997, The Party Wall Act etc 1996 has given neighbours rights and responsibilities depending on whether you or your neighbour  are carrying out work on a relevant structure.

A Party Wall is not just between two semi-detatched properties, but also covers the following:

• A wall forming part of only one building but which is on the boundary  line between two or more properties.

• A wall which is common to two or more properties, including where  someone has built a wall and a neighbour has subsequently  constructed something butting up to it.

• A garden wall, where it is constructed astride the boundary line, or  butts up against it, and is used to separate the properties; but is not  part of any building.

• Floors and ceilings of flats and apartments.

• Excavations near to a neighbouring property.

Works that require a notice and permission

Below is a list of works that can only be carried out to a party wall with the written agreement of the adjoining owner(s):

• Cutting into a wall to take the bearing of a beam.
• Inserting a damp proof course all the way through a wall.
• Raising the whole party wall and cutting off any objects stopping this from   happening.
• Demolishing and rebuilding the party wall.
• Underpinning the whole, or part, of a wall.
• Protecting adjoining walls by cutting a flashing into an adjoining building.
• Excavating foundations within 3 metres of an adjoining structure and lower  than its foundations.
• Excavating foundations within 6 metres of an adjoining structure and  below a line drawn down at 45 degrees from the bottom of its foundations.

Works that do not require a notice and permission

The following minor works do not require the written agreement of the adjoining owner(s):

• Putting up shelving and wall units.
• Replastering.
• Electrical rewiring.
• Fixing plugs.

If you are unsure whether The Party Wall Act applies to your proposed works, Albion Technical Solutions are able to to provide advice as necessary.