Party wall services
Party Wall matters commonly arise when carrying out building work that affects a shared wall, boundary or nearby structure. This includes extensions, loft conversions, structural alterations and excavation works close to neighbouring properties.
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At HOBBS ARC, we provide Party Wall services to help homeowners meet their legal obligations under the Party Wall etc. Act 1996. Our role is to guide clients through the process clearly and pragmatically, helping projects progress while reducing the risk of disputes or delays.
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Whether acting as the Building Owner’s surveyor or as an Agreed Surveyor, we focus on clarity, fairness and good communication throughout the process.
What’s included
Our Party Wall services are tailored to the scope of works and typically include:
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Advice on whether the Party Wall Act applies to your project
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Preparation and service of Party Wall Notices
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Managing responses, consents and dissents
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Preparation of Party Wall Awards where required
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Review of drawings and relevant construction details
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We aim to keep the process proportionate to the works, avoiding unnecessary complexity wherever possible.
How we work
We start by reviewing your proposed works and confirming whether they fall under the Party Wall etc. Act 1996. If required, the appropriate notices are prepared and served on the adjoining owners.
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Where consent is given, works can usually proceed without further action. If a dispute arises, we prepare the necessary Party Wall Award, setting out how and when the works are to be carried out, helping protect both parties and reduce the risk of conflict during construction.
When Party Wall services are required
Party Wall procedures are commonly triggered by works such as:
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Loft conversions involving steel beams or structural alterations
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Extensions built on or close to a boundary
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Excavations near neighbouring buildings
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Removal of chimney breasts from party walls
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Early advice can help avoid delays once work is ready to start.
Party Wall FAQs – London projects
Are Party Wall matters more common in London?
Yes. With a high proportion of terraced and semi-detached properties, Party Wall procedures are frequently required for London extensions, loft conversions and basement works.
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Do basement works in London always require Party Wall input?
Basement excavations often trigger the Party Wall etc. Act due to their proximity to neighbouring foundations. Early advice is recommended to avoid delays.
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What if my neighbour lives in a flat or the property is split into flats?
In London, adjoining properties are often leasehold. Notices may need to be served on multiple owners or freeholders, which can affect timescales and should be addressed early.
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Does serving a Party Wall Notice affect my planning permission?
Planning permission and Party Wall matters are separate processes. Even where planning permission is not required, Party Wall procedures may still apply.
Start a project
If your building works affect a shared wall or boundary, Party Wall procedures may apply. Get in touch to discuss your project and the steps required to move forward.
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