Jason Edworthy Party Wall Surveyor
FAQs Melksham
Here are some of the most FAQs Melksham Jason Edworthy receives about Party Walls – answered clearly to help guide you through the process.
Here are some of the most FAQs Melksham Jason Edworthy receives about Party Walls – answered clearly to help guide you through the process.
Q: What is a Party Wall and When Does the Party Wall Act Apply?
A party wall is a shared wall between two properties—usually a dividing wall between terraced or semi-detached homes. The Party Wall etc. Act 1996 applies when you carry out work that may affect this shared structure or the boundary, such as:
Q: Do I Always Need a Party Wall Agreement Before Starting Work?
A: Not always—but if your planned work falls under the Party Wall Act, you must serve a Party Wall Notice to adjoining owners. If they consent in writing, you may proceed.
If they dissent or don’t respond within 14 days, you’ll need a Party Wall Surveyor to prepare a Party Wall Award (a legally binding agreement).
Q: Can I Serve a Party Wall Notice Myself?
A: Yes, legally you can serve the notice yourself.
However, many homeowners and builders choose to have a Party Wall Surveyor like Jason Edworthy prepare and serve it to avoid errors.
Incorrect notices can delay the process or lead to disputes.
Q: What can I do if my neighbour is building on the boundary without consulting me?
A: If your neighbour is building on the boundary without consulting you, and the work affects a shared or adjoining structure, they may be in breach of the Party Wall etc. Act 1996.
This Act requires them to notify you in advance before starting certain types of construction, such as building a wall on the boundary or carrying out excavation close to your property.
If no notice has been given, you have every right to raise an objection and seek protection for your property.
In this situation, it’s important to contact an experienced Party Wall Surveyor like Jason Edworthy, who can help you understand your legal rights, assess whether the correct procedures have been followed, and advise on the appropriate steps—whether that involves serving a counter-notice or applying for an injunction to pause the work until the matter is resolved.
Q: What If My Neighbour Ignores the Party Wall Notice Melksham?
A: If there’s no reply within 14 days, the law treats this as a dispute, and you must appoint a Party Wall Surveyor to proceed.
We recommend contacting a surveyor early so the process stays on track and doesn’t delay your build.
Q: What Is a Party Wall Award Melksham and Why Is It Important?
A: A Party Wall Award is a legal document prepared by a surveyor (or surveyors) outlining:
It protects both parties and ensures work is done safely and legally.
Q: How Long Does the Party Wall Process Take Melksham?
A: Initially, the Adjoining Owner has court within 14 days to CONSENT OR DISSENT to the Notice. Failure to reply would mean a dispute will be deemed.
If the Adjoining Owner issues a DISSENT to the Notice, a surveyor is then appointed within 14 days .
This should take approximately 4 weeks. It takes 2 months for the Notice period for party structure works however once an Award is agreed, work can progress immediately.
If you ignore the Party Wall Act , it could severely affect your project resulting in unwanted delays and unnecessary costs.
If you have any doubts, contact us at Jason Edworthy – we could save you time and money.
A party wall notices served but our party wall surveyors are for both the building owner and adjoining owner’s property.
A formal party wall notice for building owners and property owners are ideal for semi detached houses where one person carrying construction work must inform adjoining owners of intended works involving boundary walls
Q: Can Jason Edworthy act as the Agreed Surveyor for both parties?
A: Yes, if both you and your neighbour agree, Jason Edworthy can act as the Agreed Surveyor, streamlining the process and potentially reducing costs. As an impartial professional, he ensures both parties’ interests are fairly represented.
Q: What is a retrospective Party Wall Agreement Melksham?
A: A retrospective Party Wall Agreement is established after work has commenced or completed without prior notice.
While it’s not ideal, it can help resolve disputes and outline responsibilities post-construction. However, it’s always best to follow proper procedures before starting any work.
