What Doesn’t the Party Wall etc. Act Cover?
What is NOT COVERED by the Party Wall Act?
The Party Wall etc. Act (in the United Kingdom), generally applies to matters that relate to party walls, boundary walls and excavation work near a neighbouring property. However, there are exclusions and exemptions to this Act, some examples being:
- Non-party structures: The Act applies in the most part to walls or structures provided for within the terms of the party wall legislation, which are shared or owned jointly. For example, free-standing structures are usually likewise omitted from the Act (except where it is connected to a party wall), so involve the relevant boundary or fence parties where applicable, standalone outbuildings or walls, and similar.
- Internal walls: The Act is also for the most part applies to walls separating independent (or different) properties. However, the extent of the Act may not apply to internal walls belonging to only one property if they are not likewise party walls to the adjoining property.
- Minor works: The Act does not apply to minor or routine maintenance or repairs which do not have an effect on the stability or structural integrity of the party wall, examples of this may include repainting, replastering, or replacing sockets and fixtures on a wall.
- Work wholly on your own land: The Act principally deals with work that directly affects shared, or adjoining land. If the work you are proposing is wholly on your own land, and does not affect the party wall or boundary, then the Act may not apply. It is still advised to get expert advice to ensure compliance with other legislation or regulation.
- Disputes unrelated to a party wall: The Act considers party wall issues and their consequences. It has no exclusion provisions for other disputes, such as rights of way, boundary disputes not related to party walls or walls and/or buildings, noise, nuisance or general property disputes.
Details of what is covered and what is excluded will differ depending on your jurisdiction. If you have an individual circumstance, it is always advisable to check the legislation or gain professional advice to clarify whether the Party Wall etc. Act, or any other legislation, is valid in your area plane.
Get in touch with us for a free consultation. Our well-versed and professional staff will determine whether the suggested work is covered by the Party Wall Act based on your drawings, which you can share with us via email or call. We offer you our best, customised, and risk-free advice. We are also pleased to provide our professional services to Greater London and the surrounding areas.
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📞 0203 576 0786 / 0777 3360033
📧 info@partywallssurveyors.co.uk
