Hello World! Welcome Friends! Most people who live in semi-detached or terraced homes have at least one common wall with their neighbors. According to UK law, this is known as a “party wall,” it can become contentious if you or your neighbors wish to alter it somehow. You may, for instance, choose to have your loft expanded, your chimney breast taken out, or damp proofing installed.
Most people who live in semi-detached or terraced homes have at least one common wall with their neighbours. According to UK law, this is known as a “party wall,” it can become contentious if you or your neighbours wish to alter it somehow. You may, for instance, choose to have your loft expanded, your chimney breast taken out, or damp proofing installed.
The Party Wall Act of 1996 governs such disputes by outlining the duties of each party involved. It aims to ensure that potential disagreements are discussed and resolved amicably before construction begins.
Moreover, it lays out a plan for handling problems like repairs, payments, and access that may crop up. But the Act doesn’t apply to everything and can’t replace friendly connections with your neighbors. As a result, it’s crucial to get along well with your neighbours before beginning work on the party wall. How exactly do you go about that? Read on.
Guidelines for Neighborly Communication Regarding Party Wall Matters
1. Talk to Your Neighbors as Early as Possible
Before applying for planning or building rules approval, it is best practice to notify your neighbors of your intentions. This will allow them to voice any issues they may have or offer any potential solutions. Furthermore, it will demonstrate your respect for their viewpoint and desire to avoid tension.
2. Explain the Work in Simple and Straightforward Terms
Your neighbours may be unable to decipher the technical drawings or specs you have prepared. Therefore, use simple language to describe the job, supplemented by visuals whenever available. It would help if you also told them how long the task will take, its impact on them, and why you want to undertake it.
3. Provide Them With a Written Notice
You must give your neighbors at least two months’ written notice under the Party Wall Act of 1996 before you start work. Your contact information, a description of the work to be done, and a start date should all be included in the notice. In addition to the letter of recognition, you should enclose a copy of the Act for them to sign and return. This will prove that the notice was received and as acceptance or rejection of the work.
4. Be Prepared to Negotiate
Your neighbours have the right to agree or disagree with the work. If they agree, you can continue with the task as planned. If they disagree, you must appoint a surveyor to draw an agreement known as an award.
The award will specify the work’s terms and conditions, such as how it will be completed, who will pay for it, and how any harm will be rectified. You and your neighbours can hire a joint surveyor or individually hire your own. Typically, the party performing the job pays the surveyor’s fees.
5. Be Considerate and Cooperative
Even though you’ve obeyed the Party Wall Act of 1996 and received an award, you should still be considerate and cooperative to your neighbors during construction. You should keep them updated on the progress, keep noise and disruption at a minimum, and respect their privacy and property. You should also be prepared to deal with any issues or complaints and strive to settle them amicably.
Conclusion
When it comes to party wall matters, fostering positive communication and cooperation with your neighbours is not only a legal requirement but also essential for maintaining harmonious relationships. By following these guidelines and being considerate throughout the process, you can ensure a smooth and amicable resolution of any potential disputes that may arise.
If you reside in the royal borough of Kingston Upon Thames and require Kingston surveyors to help you mediate a party wall situation, Simmons Taylor Hall chartered surveyors are knowledgeable experts on the Party Wall Act 1996, and can help develop plans for easy execution of your project.
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