Bromley Council Party Wall Agreement Explained
If you`re planning to make structural changes to your property, such as building an extension or a new wall, you may need to get a party wall agreement. This is a legal document that outlines the rights and responsibilities of both you and your neighbors in relation to the shared wall or boundary.
In the London borough of Bromley, the party wall agreement is regulated by the Party Wall etc. Act 1996. This act lays out a framework for resolving disputes and protecting the interests of all parties involved.
What Is a Party Wall?
A party wall is a wall that separates two or more properties, and is located on the boundary line between them. It can also be a wall that is entirely on one property but is used by two or more owners to separate their properties.
Party walls can be made of various materials, such as brick, concrete, or wood, and they can be of any height or thickness. They also include any structures attached to the wall, such as chimneys, balconies, or parapets.
When Do You Need a Party Wall Agreement?
The Party Wall etc. Act 1996 requires you to serve a notice to your neighbors if you`re planning to carry out any of the following works:
– Building a new wall on the boundary line between your property and your neighbor`s property
– Repairing, rebuilding, or modifying an existing party wall
– Excavating or digging below the foundation level of a shared wall
– Building a new structure on or near the boundary line that could affect the stability of the shared wall
The party wall notice should be given in writing and should state the nature and scope of the proposed works. Your neighbors then have 14 days to respond in writing either consenting to the works or disputing them.
If all parties agree to the proposed works, this will be documented in a party wall agreement, which will set out the details of the works and the rights and responsibilities of everyone involved.
Why Do You Need a Party Wall Agreement?
A party wall agreement is important because it helps to prevent disputes and confusion between neighbors. It clarifies who is responsible for what, and it ensures that any potential damage is resolved fairly and quickly.
If you fail to obtain a party wall agreement and proceed with the works, your neighbors can take legal action against you and seek damages for any damage caused to their property.
How to Obtain a Party Wall Agreement in Bromley
To obtain a party wall agreement in Bromley, you need to follow these steps:
1. Serve a party wall notice to your neighbors, describing the proposed works and their nature.
2. Wait for your neighbors` response for 14 days.
3. If there is no response after 14 days, send a second notice giving your neighbors another 10 days to respond.
4. If they still fail to respond, you`ll need to appoint a surveyor to prepare a party wall award.
5. If your neighbors agree to the proposed works, you`ll need to appoint a surveyor to prepare a party wall agreement.
Final Thoughts
If you`re planning to make changes to your property, it`s important to obtain a party wall agreement to ensure that all parties are aware of their rights and responsibilities. In Bromley, the process of obtaining a party wall agreement is straightforward, but it`s important to follow the correct procedures to avoid any legal disputes.
