My neighbour wishes to do work that is governed by the Party Wall Act. Should I sign a “party wall agreement” or request a “party wall awards?
The answer to this question will depend upon the complexity of the building work, your relationship with your neighbour, and your understanding of what your neighbour proposes to build. If you have a good understanding of the proposed work and you feel that the risk of damage to your property is relatively low then you may consider signing a party wall agreement if your neighbour offers this to you. The agreement will set out a basic framework detailing what work is to take place, how the work is to be carried out, and what will happen in the event of damage occurring. In signing the agreement you are consenting for the work to proceed. Surveyors will not be appointed to look into the proposed scheme. The cost of purchasing the agreement will usually be paid by the person undertaking the work. If you are unsure about the extent and/or nature of the building work or are not happy for the work to proceed without a surveyor first investigating the scheme to safeguard your interests then y
