If you're planning an extension, loft conversion or any structural work near a shared boundary, you may need a party wall agreement. Here's a straightforward explanation of what it involves.
The Party Wall etc. Act 1996 applies when you want to: build on or near a boundary with a neighbouring property, cut into a party wall (a shared wall), or excavate near a neighbouring building's foundations.
You must serve formal notice on your neighbours at least two months before work begins (one month for excavation). Your neighbour then has 14 days to consent or dissent. If they consent in writing, no further action is needed.
If your neighbour dissents (or doesn't respond), both parties must appoint a party wall surveyor. The surveyors produce an 'award' document that records the condition of the neighbour's property and sets out how the work should proceed.
Costs vary: if your neighbour consents, the process costs nothing beyond the notice itself. If surveyors are needed, expect to pay £1,000 to £2,000 per neighbour for the surveyor's fees. As the building owner, you typically pay for both surveyors.
Common triggers in Kent projects: rear extensions within 3 metres of a neighbour's foundation, loft conversions involving a shared party wall, and side extensions built up to the boundary.
At TEMBOK, we handle party wall notices and coordinate with surveyors on your behalf. We always recommend early, friendly communication with neighbours — most disputes arise from surprise rather than genuine objection.