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Timing your party wall notices correctly is helpful for avoiding unnecessary delays and unexpected costs. This overview explains when and how these notices should be served. Key Information on Party Wall Notices Types of Work and Notice Periods
Understanding Notice Periods Typically, notice periods don't present major issues, as adjacent owners are often willing to waive them once documents are in place. However, special circumstances—such as upcoming garden parties or school exams—can make some neighbours more particular about timing. It’s worth noting that some surveyors delay making an award under the pretext that the notice period hasn’t elapsed. While technically true, this approach runs counter to the Party Wall Act's intent, which encourages proactive and timely progress. Planning Is Key Avoid unnecessary project delays by factoring in notice periods during early planning stages. Best Practices for Serving Party Wall Notices Start Early—but Not Prematurely Issue your notice once you're committed to the project but no earlier than 12 months before your planned construction start date. What to Include with the Notices: Drawings or Descriptions? The Party Wall Act outlines what information should accompany each type of notice:
Bottom Line Highly detailed technical drawings aren’t always mandatory, but clear, consistent plans help tell a complete story. When properly illustrated, your notices can pre-empt questions rather than prompting them. If neighbours are left uncertain and seek external advice, you risk losing control over how the situation is interpreted. Tips for Serving Notices Effectively Start with a Conversation Before issuing formal notices—or even submitting a planning application—discuss your intentions with neighbours. Explain what you plan to do and how the Party Wall Act applies. Consider Trial Pits Digging trial holes to assess soil conditions or foundation depths can be done ahead of serving notice. This can support your design decisions and show your neighbour that your approach is organised and professional. Note: Trial pits are generally rare for smaller-scale residential works due to practical constraints. Preparing and Serving the Notice DIY or Hire a Professional? Though homeowners are legally allowed to draft and serve their own notices, correctness is crucial for legal compliance. Missing required information can make the notice invalid, potentially undermining trust and delaying progress. Hiring a knowledgeable party wall surveyor is often the most reliable and economical option, ensuring compliance and helping the process run smoothly. Conclusion Understanding when and how to serve party wall notices helps avoid common pitfalls and project delays. With the right preparation—and help from an experienced surveyor—you can streamline the process and maintain positive relations with your neighbours throughout the works. Need Party Wall notices? We offer standard notices FREE OF CHARGE, and transparent, fixed fees for anything else that may arise. Comments are closed.
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