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Ground-floor extensions
Within 3 metres of neighbouring properties.
For architects
Plan today. Protect tomorrow.
The Party Wall etc. Act 1996 protects your client and their neighbour when building work affects a shared wall or boundary. Spotting it early keeps your projects on programme.
No notice = no protection
- Delays your project
- Creates disputes
- Increases costs
How the Party Wall Act affects your projects — in one minute.
Step 1
Quick decision guide — ask three questions
1
Are you building at or across the boundary?
The Act may apply — but can often be avoided with a minor design change. Worth checking before you finalise the drawings.
2
Are you cutting into, away from, or altering a party wall or other shared structure?
The Act usually applies.
3
Are you excavating near a neighbouring structure (attached or detached)?
Within 3 metres, or within 6 metres with piled foundations. The Act normally applies.
!
If the answer to any question is yes, it is worth checking the position early.
Step 3
Early questions architects often ask
Does the Act apply here?
It depends on the work and how close it is to neighbours. The decision guide above is the fastest check — send us the drawings and we’ll confirm, free.
Which notices apply?
Section 1 (line of junction), section 3 (party structure) or section 6 (adjacent excavation), depending on the work. More than one often applies on a single project.
When should notices be served?
Section 3 notices need two months before work starts; section 1 and section 6 notices need one month. Serving early keeps the programme on track.
What happens if a neighbour dissents?
Surveyors are appointed to agree a party wall award. It’s a structured process, not a veto — the work still proceeds.
Will this delay the project?
Not if it’s handled early. Delay comes from leaving it late or serving invalid notices — both avoidable.
Get a quick review today
Send us your drawings and we’ll tell you if the Act applies.
Early advice, smoother projects
We work alongside architects to flag party wall issues before they become programme risks.
Quick responsePractical adviceNo obligation