Planning on undertaking works on your property?
If your project falls within the scope of the Party Wall Act, you are legally required to serve notice on your adjoining owner.
At Totum, we believe this statutory requirement should be handled professionally, efficiently and at a fair, transparent cost.
A valid notice must clearly outline the proposed works and anticipated timeline. Where the works are lawful, a neighbour cannot prevent them from proceeding. However, they are entitled to ensure their property is properly protected under the Act.
Once notice is served, there are two possible outcomes: consent or dissent.
If Your Neighbour Consents
Written consent allows the works to proceed after the statutory notice period. No Party Wall Award is required.
Even where consent is given, we recommend preparing a Schedule of Condition. One of our surveyors will attend the adjoining property to produce a detailed photographic and written record of its condition, noting any existing cracks or areas potentially affected by the proposed works.
This provides clear, independent evidence and ensures both parties are properly protected.
If Your Neighbour Dissents
If the adjoining owner does not consent — or fails to respond within 14 days — a dispute is deemed to have arisen under the Act.
This is resolved through a Party Wall Award, prepared by a surveyor. The parties may appoint a single agreed surveyor or separate surveyors to act impartially on their behalf.
The Award is a legally binding document that sets out:
- The agreed scope of works
- The manner and timing of construction
- Protective measures for the adjoining property
- Responsibility for fees and any potential damage
At Totum, we manage this process with discretion and clarity, ensuring compliance with the Act while preserving a constructive relationship between neighbours.
Totum 