What is The Party Wall Act?
All builders' and contractors have to be aware of the party wall act, there is proscribed steps which must be followed, neighbours must be alerted if any building work will be completed on a party wall. The act is designed to prevent the undermining of the structural integrity of shared walls and to solve any disputes. As well as walls, you must also take into account 'party structures'. This can be a wall or floor partition that separates buildings into different ownerships.
Coverage
The act covers new buildings on the boundary of two properties, works to existing party structures, excavations near the foundation level of neighbouring buildings. There can be instances where it is not clear if the act will apply, and therefore it is vital to seek professional guidance. Nathan Foley, Principal Surveyor for Home Heroes Limited, said: "All to often compliance with regard to the act comes as a surprise to home owners, designers and builders and getting in there early can save expensive delays."
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Free Checking Service
Home Heroes Limited is proud to offer a free check which applies to any development in Kent subject to our standard terms and conditions or existing conflict of interests, it is totally free and it gives you the information you need on if the act applies to these works. This allows builders and architects to know if they should inform a client whether or not the act needs to be invoked. Don't forget the act also has rights for the building owner that can be vital to assist in a build.
Sending Notice
The act can be serviced through a notice, and we will give you the information on which steps to take. This notice must be sent to all properties that are directly affected by the act. This must be sent two months before any work is started. The neighbour will have 14 days to respond with approval or rejection. You can rely on our professional advice to go ahead with peace of mind.
For more information please visit www.home-heroes.co.uk/use-our-free-plan-checking-service-to-ensure-party-wall-act-compliance or to undertake your free plan check go to www.home-heroes.co.uk/party-wall-plan-check-service.
