Guides · 5 min
Party wall basics
The Party Wall Act is not planning permission. You can need both.
When it applies
The Party Wall etc. Act 1996 covers work in England and Wales on a shared wall, a new wall at the boundary, and digging near a neighbour’s foundations. A rear extension that sits on the boundary, or foundations close to the next house, usually needs a party wall notice.
You serve notice before the work. The neighbour can agree, or dissent. If they dissent, surveyors are appointed and they agree an award. You usually pay the fees.
What it is not
A party wall agreement does not give you planning permission. Planning permission does not replace the party wall notice. They are separate.
Talk to a party wall surveyor early if you are building on the boundary. The notice periods are measured in weeks, often one or two months.
Check with your council. Rules change, and every house is different.
Questions
Does my neighbour have to say yes?
They can dissent. They cannot use the Act just to block a scheme that is otherwise lawful, but the surveyors will set conditions to protect their house.
Is a fence a party wall?
Ordinary fences are not. A shared brick wall, or foundations near the neighbour, is the usual trigger.
Check with your council. Rules change, and every house is different.