What Is A Party Wall Award?
A Party Wall Award is a legally binding document that outlines the terms and conditions agreed upon by adjacent property owners regarding work to be carried out on a shared or adjoining structure, known as a Party Wall. The award is typically created by a Party Wall Surveyor and is enforceable by law.
When it comes to buildings that share a common boundary, two terms are often used interchangeably: party walls and party structures. While they are related, there is a subtle difference between the two. In this blog post, we will also explore the distinction between party walls and party structures, and what it means for building owners and occupants.
Party Wall Act 1996
The Party Wall Act 1996 is a (UK) law that provides a framework for dealing with party walls and party structures. The Act sets out procedures for notifications, disputes, and awards related to party walls and party structures. It is essential for property owners and occupants to understand their rights and obligations under the Act to avoid disputes and ensure smooth maintenance of shared structures.
What is a Party Wall?
A Party Wall is a shared wall that separates two or more adjacent properties. It can be a common boundary between two houses, apartments, or commercial buildings. Party walls can be found in a variety of situations, including:
Semi-detached houses with a shared wall
Terraced houses with shared walls between adjacent properties
Flats or apartments with shared walls between units
Commercial buildings with shared walls between neighbouring businesses
What is a Party Structure?
A Party Structure is a broader term that refers to a structure that is shared by two or more properties. This can include not only walls but also floors, ceilings, and other structural elements that are common to multiple properties.
Party Structures can be found in various contexts:
shared buildings
adjacent buildings
buildings that are separated by a narrow passageway
The Party Wall Process
When is a Party Wall Award Needed?
A Party Wall Award is typically required when one property owner intends to carry out work on a party wall, such as:
Extensions or loft conversions
Structural repairs or reinforcement
Demolition or removal of a party wall
Excavations or groundwork adjacent to a party wall
The purpose of a Party Wall Award is to protect the interests of all parties involved, ensuring that the work is carried out safely and with minimal disruption to neighbouring properties.
What is Included in a Party Wall Award?
A Party Wall Award typically includes the following information:
Description of the work:
A detailed description of the work to be carried out, including any necessary repair or protection measures.
Schedule of work:
A schedule outlining the start and completion dates, working hours, and any specific requirements for the project.
Schedule of Condition survey:
A record of the current condition of the Party Wall and areas of any adjacent properties that would be deemed to be within an area of influence of the works, before work commences.
Responsibilities:
A clear outline of the responsibilities of each party, including any necessary repair or maintenance obligations.
Cost and payment details:
Details of any costs associated with the work, including any necessary compensation or insurance requirements.
How is a Party Wall Award Created?
A Party Wall Award is typically created through the following process:
Notification (Party Wall / Structures Notice):
The property owner intending to carry out the work notifies their neighbour(s) of their intentions.
Surveyor appointment:
A Party Wall Surveyor is appointed to assess the work and create a draft award.
Draft award:
The surveyor creates a draft award, which is then reviewed and agreed upon by all parties.
Award agreement:
The final award is signed by all parties, making it a legally binding document.
Conclusion
A Party Wall Award is essential for preventing disputes and ensuring that work is carried out safely and efficiently. It provides a clear understanding of the work, responsibilities, and costs involved, protecting the interests of all parties and helping to maintain good neighbourly relations.
R F Gill & Associates offers expert advice and guidance on Party Wall matters, including the creation of Party Wall Awards. Our experienced team of can help navigate the process, ensuring that your interests are protected and the work is carried out successfully.