The Party Wall Act 1996

If you or your neighbour are planning to carry out building work on or near to a boundary it is likely to fall within the scope of the Party Wall Act 1996, as defined at http://www.hmso.gov.uk/acts/acts1996/1996040.htm

If this seems rather daunting we can advise you on the authoritative interpretation of this law.

To help you, it can be summed up as follows:

1. Any new building at or astride the boundary line between property affecting the existing party wall including:

• Extending the existing party wall,
  
• Underpinning it,
  
• Rebuilding it,
  
• Repairing it, and
  
• Reducing it in size.

2. Any new foundation:

Excavating or constructing foundations within three metres and in exceptional cases within six metres of an existing construction.

The first step is to either telephone us (01707 657 854) or send us an email (contact@johntaylorpartnership.co.uk) with your ideas.