The Party Wall etc. Act 1996

The Party Wall etc. Act 1996 is UK legislation that governs how property owners can carry out building work near or on shared walls, boundaries, or structures. Its purpose is to prevent disputes by requiring property owners to notify and obtain agreement from neighbors before starting work such as installing a new wall, excavating close to a boundary, or removing parts of a shared wall. The Act provides a clear process for serving notices, resolving disagreements through surveyors, and ensuring neighbors’ rights are protected, promoting fair and safe development while maintaining good neighbor relationships.