If you’ve received a Party Wall Notice in Maidenhead, it means your neighbour plans to carry out construction work that could impact your property. That could be anything from digging a new basement to removing a chimney breast. Intrigued? Concerned? You're not alone. At Jason Edworthy, we help navigate the complexities of such situations. Let’s unpack what it really means and what steps you should take.
Why You Received a Party Wall Notice
Understanding Party Wall Notices is crucial when navigating these situations. The Party Wall etc. Act 1996 legally requires your neighbour to notify you before beginning work that might affect a shared wall, boundary, or structure. This isn’t just a courtesy. It’s the law. And it’s there to protect both parties—you and your neighbour.
“Good fences make good neighbours.” – Robert Frost. But good paperwork makes better ones.
What Kind of Work Triggers This Notice?
The most common culprits? Loft conversions. Rear extensions. Basement digs. Chimney removals. Even some internal structural changes. The notice you receive should list the exact work planned. You’ll need to respond within 14 days.
What’s the Point of the Party Wall Act?
Simply put, the Act lets your neighbour improve their property—*without* damaging yours. It gives you a say in how the work is done, and crucially, it allows for a Schedule of Condition (SOC) to be recorded before any construction begins.
What’s a Schedule of Condition?
Think of it as your property's 'before' photos. This document records the current state of your walls, floors, and ceilings. If damage happens during the neighbour’s construction, there’s a clear record—and someone is accountable.
Are You Financially Covered?
Yes. If the works damage your property, and it's covered by the SOC, your neighbour’s team will cover the repairs. Bonus: in almost all cases, the neighbour pays for the surveyors involved. Peace of mind doesn’t have to cost you a penny.
How You Can Respond
You have three options. Let’s break them down:
1. Consent to the Works Immediately
If the proposed works are minor and non-structural, you can simply give written consent. No surveyors. No award. Fast and cheap.
But a word to the wise: this is only suitable if you're 100% confident there’s minimal risk. No SOC means no official proof if damage occurs. Repairs might become a tug-of-war.
2. Appoint a Party Wall Surveyor
If the works are more substantial—think basements, lofts, or major alterations—you can dissent and appoint your own surveyor. This is the safer route.
Your neighbour will usually cover your surveyor’s fee. Your surveyor and theirs will agree on a Third Surveyor in case of disputes. Together, they’ll prepare the SOC and produce a Party Wall Award. It’s a legally binding document that lays out how the work should proceed and what protections you get.
3. Dispute the Notice Completely
This option is rare—and expensive. Unless the proposed work is highly contentious or you’re in active disagreement with your neighbour, it typically leads to extra costs for everyone without significant benefit.
What Should You Do Now?
Step one: Don’t delay. You only have 14 days to respond. Step two: Speak to a qualified Party Wall Surveyor in Maidenhead. Whether you’re the building owner or the adjoining owner, we offer clear, practical advice backed by years of experience.
Your Property. Your Rights. Your Peace of Mind.
Party wall matters don’t have to be stressful. With the right guidance, they’re just another box to tick. Our surveyors have helped hundreds of property owners across Maidenhead navigate the process with confidence and clarity.
