Party Wall etc. Act 1996 — what do I do?
A plain-English flow of the party wall process, from first notice through to the Award. For guidance only — speak to an FPWS-registered surveyor for advice on your matter.
Answer a few questions — get the next step
Tell us who you are, then follow the prompts. Guidance only — not legal advice.
- Building Owner
1. Planning works?
Will your project involve building on the boundary line, works to a party wall, or excavation within 3m / 6m of a neighbour?
No — the Act doesn't applyYes — serve Notice - Building Owner
2. Serve Notice
The Building Owner serves the correct Notice on every Adjoining Owner. Get it wrong and the clock never starts.
- Adjoining Owner
3. Adjoining Owner responds
The Adjoining Owner has 14 days to consent in writing or dissent. No response = deemed dissent.
Consents in writingDissents (or no reply) - Outcome
Recommended: Schedule of Condition
Even with consent, we strongly advise a Schedule of Condition to protect both parties before work begins.
- Both Owners
4. Appoint surveyor(s)
Owners can jointly appoint one Agreed Surveyor, or each appoint their own.
Agreed Surveyor (one)Two surveyors (one each) - Surveyor(s)
5. Select Third Surveyor
The two surveyors select a Third Surveyor and notify both Owners. The Third Surveyor only acts if there's a disagreement.
- Surveyor(s)
6. Schedule of Condition
Surveyor(s) record the condition of the Adjoining Owner's property before works start — photos and written notes.
- Surveyor(s)
7. Party Wall Award
Surveyor(s) prepare and serve the Award on both Owners. It sets out the works, working hours, access and protections.
- Both Owners
8. Appeal window (14 days)
Either Owner may appeal the Award in the County Court within 14 days. Otherwise it's binding.
- Outcome
9. Commence works
Building Owner can lawfully start the notifiable works in line with the Award.
Answer 6 quick questions and we'll tell you the next step — free.
Flowchart adapted from The Faculty of Party Wall Surveyors guidance (Rev C). For guidance only — please contact an FPWS member for advice specific to your matter.