As a professional, it’s important to understand the basics of party wall agreements or awards, especially if you’re writing content related to this topic. Let’s delve into what a party wall agreement or award is, and why it’s important to have one in place.
A party wall agreement or award is a legal agreement between two or more parties who share a common wall or boundary. This agreement outlines the rights and responsibilities of each party regarding the wall and any work that might be done to it. The agreement is usually necessary when one party wants to carry out work that would affect the other party’s wall or property.
The purpose of a party wall agreement or award is to ensure that any work done to the wall is carried out safely and with the minimum disruption to the other party. It also ensures that the party carrying out the work takes responsibility for any damage that might occur during the process.
Party wall agreements or awards are generally required in the UK when carrying out any of the following work:
– Building a new wall on the boundary
– Cutting into the party wall to install a beam or lintel
– Underpinning the party wall
– Adding a foundation to the party wall
– Removing or demolishing part of the party wall
The process of obtaining a party wall agreement or award involves notifying the affected party or parties of the proposed work and serving them with a notice. The notice should give details of the work that is planned, the duration of the work, and any potential impact on the other party’s property. The affected party then has the right to either consent to the work or to appoint a surveyor to act on their behalf.
If both parties agree on the work, a party wall agreement can be drawn up, which will outline the work and any obligations and responsibilities. If an agreement can’t be reached, then a party wall award may be necessary. In this case, each party will appoint a surveyor, who will then appoint a third surveyor to act as an independent adjudicator. The surveyors will then make a decision on the work that can be carried out and any associated costs and damages.
In conclusion, party wall agreements or awards are important legal documents that protect the rights and responsibilities of both parties when carrying out work that affects a shared wall or boundary. If you’re planning on carrying out any work that might affect your neighbor’s property, it’s important to ensure that you have a party wall agreement or award in place to avoid any potential disputes down the line.
