Surveying party walls

This section explains the scope and operation of the Party Wall etc. Act 1996. It briefly summarises the history of party wall legislation and the rights and responsibilities of neighbouring owners, discusses the type of work for which notice must be served, and outlines the procedures to be followed. Key definitions are explained, in addition to a number of practical details where the application of the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 is unclear.

The role of the appointed surveyor is discussed as this is a crucial factor in the success of the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 within the property industry.

This section is maintained by Nicholas Isaac QC of Tanfield Chambers and Matthew Hearsum of Morrisons Solicitors.

RICS standards and guidance: Boundaries: procedures for boundary identification, demarcation and dispute resolution, RICS guidance note

RICS standards and guidance: Party wall legislation and procedure, RICS guidance note

Document template: Party walls draft award

Features:

• Boundary disputes: unbiased work
• Party wall practice: impact of RICS' ethics