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PARTY WALL SERVICES

We specialise in Party Wall matters and are a member of the Faculty of Party Wall Surveyors.

We offer a comprehensive service for the preparation of party wall awards, including party structure notices, for private residential property, offices and shops in the London area.

We can act for Building Owners, Adjoining Owners independently as well as acting on behalf of both parties as an Agreed Surveyor. So, sit back and let us deal with matters for you.

80% of projects require a Party Wall Surveyor.

Chances are if you live in a terraced or semi-detached house you will require a Party Wall Surveyor to meet building standards.

UNDERSTANDING PARTY WALLS

A party wall is a wall shared between two adjoining properties. Understanding your rights and responsibilities regarding party walls is crucial, especially during construction or renovation projects.

PARTY WALL AGREEMENT

A party wall agreement is a legally binding document that outlines the work to be carried out on a party wall, and how it will affect neighboring properties. This agreement ensures that all parties understand and consent to the proposed changes.

PARTY WALL NOTICE

Before starting any work involving a party wall, you must serve a party wall notice to your neighbors. This notice informs them of the planned work and their rights.

ROLE OF A PARTY WALL SURVEYOR

A party wall surveyor assists in resolving disputes related to party walls. They ensure that the work complies with the Party Wall Act 1996 and protects the interests of both property owners.
 

Frequently Asked Questions

As a Building Owner, do I have the right of access to my neighbour’s property to undertake the work, and as an Adjoining Owner do I have to grant access to the Building Owner to undertake the work?
There is a right of access within working hours on Notice, but only if it is to undertake the notifiable work in accordance with the Act.

Can the Act be used to resolve a boundary dispute?
The Act is not there to resolve such matters and the Surveyors do not have the power to do so.

Do I have to inform my neighbour if I am just putting up bookshelves or fixing electrical socket outlets to the party wall?
This sort of work is generally considered to be minor and such works would not be notifiable under the Act.

What happens if I do not serve a Notice, as required?
The Act carries no fines or penalties but it is possible that the Adjoining Owner may apply to the court for an injunction ordering you to stop work.

What happens if the Adjoining Owner does not consent to the Notice within 14 days?
Where you wish to build a new wall on the line of junction, you will have the right only to build on your own land.
Regarding a Notice for other notifiable works, if there is no reply to the Notice after 14 days then a dispute is deemed to have arisen and you and the Adjoining Owner must appoint a Surveyor. If the Adjoining Owner then still fails to respond and appoint a Surveyor, then after 10 days you may appoint a surveyor on his behalf.

What happens if I do not agree with what my appointed surveyor is doing?
You are unable to rescind the appointment, but you can approach the Third Surveyor to resolve the matter for you.

Who pays the Surveyor’s fees?
Under normal circumstances the Building Owner would pay the fees (costs) as he is the one undertaking the works, usually for his benefit. However, the Surveyors will make the final determination, and can make the Adjoining Owners pay their costs, for example in circumstances where they have been particularly obstructive.

Why Choose Studio MASS

At Studio MASS, we provide comprehensive party wall services, including the preparation of party wall notices, drafting party wall agreements, and offering expert party wall surveyor services. Our goal is to ensure smooth and compliant construction projects while maintaining good relationships with your neighbors.

For more information on party walls and how Studio MASS can assist you, contact us today. Let us help you navigate the complexities of party wall agreements and notices with ease and professionalism.

Comprehensive Services

No matter the size of your project, we provide architectural services designed to deliver your brief and create a space to be enjoyed for years to come. Our services include:

Trust Studio : MASS to guide you through this intricate process, making your dream home project a reality with a smoother planning journey.

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