Planning a construction project in Rochdale? If the work involves a wall or boundary you share with a neighbour, hold that sledgehammer you may need a party wall agreement first.
This isn’t just red tape it’s a legally binding document that sets out each party’s rights and responsibilities during construction. Think of it as a pre-construction peace treaty. It keeps projects lawful, safe, and drama-free (well, mostly).
When Is a Party Wall Agreement Required?
If your plans include altering, building on, or excavating near a shared wall or boundary, the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 comes into play. Whether you're digging footings for an extension, building a new garden wall, or adding a chimney, this agreement is designed to protect both your interests and your neighbour's. It must be in place before work begins. Engaging a Party wall Surveyor in Rochdale can help you navigate the process smoothly, ensuring everything is handled by the book.
Let’s put it this way: if your building work might shake, move, or lean on a wall you didn’t build alone, you likely need one.
What Exactly Is a Party Wall Agreement?
A party wall agreement is a written, signed arrangement between you and your neighbour that confirms what's being built, how it will affect the shared structure, and what protections are in place. It sets expectations, details timelines, and helps keep relations cordial even when power tools are involved.
What Does a Surveyor Do in This Process?
Here’s where Faulkners in Rochdale comes in. Our qualified surveyors act as impartial experts. They:
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Assess the current condition of the party wall (so everyone knows what “pre-existing damage” actually means)
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Prepare a Party Wall Award a formal document outlining who’s responsible for what
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Ensure construction is carried out safely and with minimal disruption to both properties
In short, we take care of the legal and structural nitty-gritty, so you can focus on the actual build.
Why Bother? (Hint: It’s Not Just About the Law)
Still thinking about skipping the agreement? Here's why you shouldn’t:
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Avoid legal headaches: Clear documentation helps prevent disputes. Remember Alan from Littleborough? He didn’t notify his neighbour and ended up in mediation over a garden shed.
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Ensure safety: Surveyors ensure proper safeguards are in place no accidental collapses or stress cracks, thank you.
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Preserve property value: Well-documented, responsible work fewer future issues. Buyers love that.
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Stay compliant: The Party Wall Act isn’t optional. It's the law. And trust us, enforcement notices aren’t nearly as fun as blueprints. Back to Homepage
Let Faulkners Rochdale Handle It
If you're starting a project that affects a party wall, we’ll walk you through every step. From assessing the site to drafting agreements and issuing the Party Wall Award, our surveyors have your back.
At Faulkners Surveyors Rochdale, we don’t just tick boxes we protect your build, your property, and your peace of mind.
Contact us today to discuss your plans, and let’s keep your project moving forward legally, safely, and neighbour-friendly.
