Introduction

Thinking about a loft conversion, kitchen extension, or basement project in London or Hertfordshire? Alongside planning permission and building regulations, there’s another legal requirement you may need to deal with: the Party Wall Award.

Also known as a Party Wall Agreement, this is the document that ensures your building works proceed legally and fairly when they affect a shared wall or a neighbour’s property. It may sound daunting, but with the right advice, the process is straightforward and designed to protect everyone involved.

When Is a Party Wall Award Required?

Under the Party Wall etc. Act 1996, you must serve a Party Wall Notice before carrying out certain types of work, including:

• Loft conversions involving steel beams into a party wall
• Extensions with foundations close to a neighbour’s property
• Removing a chimney breast shared with a neighbour
• Building new walls on or astride a boundary

If your neighbour consents to the notice, you can usually start work without a formal Award. However, if they dissent or fail to reply, then an Award becomes legally required before works can begin.

What Does a Party Wall Award Contain?

A Party Wall Award sets out the rules of engagement for your building project. It typically includes:

1. Schedule of Condition – a detailed record (written and photographic) of the neighbour’s property before works begin.
2. Description of Works – drawings, structural details, and a method statement.
3. Working Conditions – permitted hours, protective measures, and access arrangements.
4. Liability and Costs – who pays for surveyors, and how any damage will be dealt with.

This ensures that both Building Owner and Adjoining Owner have clarity and protection before the first brick is removed.

Why Is a Party Wall Award Important?

A Party Wall Award isn’t just a formality – it brings real benefits:

• Legal compliance – keeps your project within the law.
• Protection – ensures your neighbour’s property is safeguarded.
• Dispute resolution – prevents arguments escalating into costly legal battles.
• Peace of mind – both owners know their rights and obligations from the outset.

Can I Do It Without a Surveyor?

While you can serve your own Party Wall Notice, you cannot draft your own Award. The Act requires an impartial Party Wall Surveyor to prepare it.

Trying to bypass this step is risky — if your notice or agreement is invalid, you may face project delays, disputes, or even legal costs.

How Long Is a Party Wall Award Valid?

A Party Wall Award is normally valid for 12 months from the date it is served. If you do not start works within that time, you may need to serve fresh notices and obtain a new Award.

Why Use Christopher Anthony Surveyors?

At Christopher Anthony Surveyors, we specialise in Party Wall matters across North London and Hertfordshire. As members of the Faculty of Party Wall Surveyors (FPWS) and RPSA, we provide:

• Fixed-fee, transparent pricing
• Fast turnaround of notices and Awards
• Detailed and accurate Schedule of Condition surveys
• Clear advice and communication throughout the process

We act for both Building Owners and Adjoining Owners, ensuring your rights are protected and your project runs smoothly.

A Party Wall Award is not an obstacle but a safeguard. It protects your property, your neighbour’s property, and your project. By appointing a professional Party Wall Surveyor, you ensure the process is handled legally, fairly, and efficiently.

Learn More

If your project is in Hackney, our Party Wall Surveyor Hackney page explains the local process in detail.

Government guidance: Party Wall etc. Act 1996

Read about our Building Owner Surveyor service

Read about our Adjoining Owner Surveyor service

Learn about our Schedule of Condition service