Party Wall Surveyors - Bath

If you are looking to carry out work on a party wall, party structure, or boundary wall at a property in or near Bath, or have been served notice of party wall works by a neighbour and are not sure what to do next, we can help.

Our experienced surveyors will guide you through each step of the process, making sure all work is compliant with the Act. We also offer support in resolving any challenges that may occur helping ensure minimum disruption. 

To speak to a member of our Bristol/Bath team: 

Call 0117 942 7876, email or complete
our enquiry form.

The Party Wall Act requires you to notify adjoining property owners of any work affecting a shared wall. Without serving notice, you do not have legal rights to proceed with the work. Likewise, if you need access to a neighbour’s land or property, such as to set up scaffolding, you’ll need permission under the Act.

Though sometimes seen as an added layer of bureaucracy, serving notice is legally required and can actually benefit you. It offers certain protections not available under common law, including access rights to carry out necessary work.

In some cases, you may be entitled to request a contribution from a neighbour towards the cost of work, particularly if it involves a shared wall in poor condition.

The Act is designed to be of benefit to both parties, allowing work to proceed while protecting neighbours from undue disturbance or damage. With consent, work can begin immediately, and if a dispute arises, it can usually be quickly and easily resolved by having the right paperwork in place. 

If you have any questions about party walls, view our frequently asked questions or get in touch with one of our expert surveyors today.

Boundary disputes have become more common in Bath and surrounding areas, possibly due to rising property and land values.

If you suspect encroachment on your land, this would be a boundary issue rather than a Party Wall matter. Easton Bevins also has boundary experts ready to assist in this complex field, as well as expert witness services if needed.
 

Find out more about boundary disputes:
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Anyone applying for planning permission will be reminded to check whether the act applies to their project. Unfortunately, smaller building projects, carried out under permitted development, often don’t require planning permission so there is no reminder.

Also, there can be a perception that the Act is an unnecessary obstruction and some contractors carrying out smaller works either do not understand the act, or simply do not see it as relevant or necessary. This puts projects and people at risk.

What to do if a neighbour starts work on a party wall without serving notice

Often a good first option is to politely point out the oversight and ask them to stop work, and serve notice. This usually achieves the desired result.

What to do if a neighbour carries on with the work without an agreement

If this does not work, you can apply for an injunction. An injunction means work must stop, and can delay a project by anything from one month to six months, or more. If a builder has already started work, they may continue to charge throughout the day. Also, if any damage has been caused, fines may be incurred.

Get professional advice before things escalate.

Getting a third party professional involved can help take the emotion out of a situation. Remember, the Act is to everyone’s advantage and in our experience, in the majority of cases a resolution is without the need for costly legal battles.

With two offices in Bristol - one in Bradley Stoke, North Bristol, and another in Osprey Court, South Bristol - we offer fast and efficient service to homeowners and property developers throughout the city and surrounding areas.

Established in 1989, Easton Bevins is renowned for its honest approach, clear and concise advice, and the highest standards of professional support. As a member of RICS, we bring extensive experience in all areas of the property and construction industry, ensuring our service is unmatched.

So whether you are a property developer or a private homeowner, get in touch with us today for prompt, professional, and expert advice.

If you have any questions about party walls, view our frequently asked questions or get in touch with one of our expert surveyors today.

Easton Bevins offers a wide range of building surveying services to meet the many and varied requirements of its Bath clients. 

Established in 1989, we are known for our honest approach, clear, concise advice and high standards of professional support.