Party Wall Glossary
The Party Wall etc. Act 1996 is procedural and precise. Here is a plain-English reference to the terms you will encounter — from first notice to final award.
An owner of land, buildings, storeys or rooms adjoining those of the Building Owner. Often a neighbour whose property abuts or is near the proposed works.
A binding document drafted by surveyors under Section 10 of the Act, setting out the works to be done, the manner of execution, hours, access, protections, and apportionment of costs.
An owner of land who is desirous of exercising rights under the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 — typically the person undertaking the building works.
The boundary line between properties. Section 1 of the Act deals with building on, or astride, the line of junction.
A wall (not part of a building) standing on lands of different owners and used to separate those lands — e.g. a freestanding garden wall on the boundary.
A party wall, floor partition or other structure separating buildings or parts of buildings in different occupations.
A wall that stands on the lands of two or more owners, forming part of a building, or separating buildings belonging to different owners.
A detailed photographic and written record of the Adjoining Owner's property prior to the start of works — essential evidence in the event of a damage claim.
Notice served when a Building Owner intends to build on, or astride, the line of junction where no wall currently exists.
Notice served for works to an existing party wall or party structure — repair, raising, underpinning, cutting in, demolition and rebuild, etc.
Notice served for excavations within 3 m or 6 m of an Adjoining Owner's building or structure, where the excavation extends below specified depths.
The dispute-resolution mechanism. Where a dispute is deemed to have arisen, surveyors are appointed to determine matters and produce an Award.
A single surveyor jointly appointed by both Building Owner and Adjoining Owner — faster and more cost-effective than appointing two separate surveyors.
A surveyor selected by the two appointed surveyors at the outset, who acts as a referee if the two cannot agree on any matter.
Foundations using an assemblage of beams or rods to distribute load. Cannot be placed on an Adjoining Owner's land without written consent.
A notice served by an Adjoining Owner within one month of receiving a Section 2 or Section 6 notice, requiring additional works for their benefit or protection.