Neighbour Building Extensions In London
Have the reassurance of a Hackney based local Neighbour Building Extensions for on hand advice.
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We provide fixed fees with no hidden costs;
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Unlimited advice & support during the party wall award making process
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No high hourly rate if any issues arises ;
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Full party wall award service, fixed with no hidden charges from £599 all inclusive.
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Express service available
We cover London:
EC1, EC2, E1, E2, E5, E8, E9, E10, E15, N1, N4, N5, and N16.
call to confirm a fixed price quote
East & North London based, we are generally never more than a 20 min cycle from your project.
We provide Neighbour Building Extensions services for both residential and commercial projects and properties throughout London
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Common types of works that affected by the Party Wall Act.
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Extensions
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Loft conversions
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Chimney removal
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Basements
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Works to boundary walls
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Any excavations within 3m of your neighbours property
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Any construction along boundary line
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Find out more about the Party Wall Act and process here.
In the dynamic and ever-evolving landscape of London's real estate, homeowners often find themselves in the midst of property extensions. As the city continues to grow, the need for additional space has led to a surge in construction projects, including extensions. However, these projects often involve shared walls between neighbouring properties, making the Party Wall Act 1996 a crucial piece of legislation. In this blog, we'll delve into the intricacies of neighbourly extensions in London, with a special focus on the expertise provided by Express Party Wall Surveyors.
Understanding the Party Wall Act:
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The Party Wall Act serves as a legal framework to manage construction work that may affect shared walls, boundaries, or structures between neighbouring extension properties. In London, where space is at a premium, this legislation plays a vital role in preventing disputes and ensuring smooth construction processes.
Express Party Wall Surveyors: A Trusted Ally:
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Choosing the right surveyor is paramount when embarking on a construction project. Express Party Wall Surveyors stand out as experienced professionals dedicated to facilitating amicable agreements between neighbours. With a wealth of expertise in London's property market, they guide homeowners through the intricate Party Wall Act requirements.
The Initial Stages: Preparing for Construction:
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Express Party Wall Surveyors emphasize the importance of early communication with neighbours. Initiating dialogue at the project's conception fosters understanding and helps alleviate potential concerns. Serving notice to adjoining owners is a mandatory step, and the surveyors play a crucial role in ensuring that the required paperwork is in order.
Mitigating Disputes: The Role of the Surveyor:
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One of the primary responsibilities of a party wall surveyor is to act impartially, representing both the building owner and the adjoining owner's interests. Express Party Wall Surveyors excel in mediating potential conflicts, working towards solutions that benefit all parties involved. Their expertise extends to drafting legally sound agreements and resolving disputes efficiently.
Detailed Surveys and Reports:
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Express Party Wall Surveyors conduct thorough surveys to assess the current state of the shared walls and surrounding structures. These detailed reports serve as a baseline, documenting any pre-existing conditions and providing clarity on the potential impact of the proposed extension. This meticulous approach contributes to a transparent and well-informed process.
Serving Party Wall Notices:
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Express Party Wall Surveyors guide homeowners in serving party wall notices, ensuring compliance with the Act's requirements. They provide clear and comprehensive notices, detailing the nature of the proposed work and its potential implications on adjoining properties. Proactive communication helps in avoiding unnecessary delays and disputes.
Negotiating Agreements:
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Navigating the negotiation process is a delicate task, and Express Party Wall Surveyors excel in achieving fair and reasonable agreements. They assist in defining the scope of work, addressing concerns, and establishing protocols to minimize disruption during construction. Their commitment to facilitating positive outcomes sets them apart in the industry.
During Construction: Ensuring Compliance:
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Express Party Wall Surveyors maintain an active role throughout the construction phase. Regular inspections and communication with both parties ensure that the work adheres to the agreed-upon terms. Their presence helps address any unforeseen issues promptly, fostering a collaborative environment.
Embarking on a neighbourly extension journey in London requires meticulous planning, effective communication, and a thorough understanding of the Party Wall Act. Express Party Wall Surveyors serve as invaluable allies, guiding homeowners through every stage of the process and ensuring a harmonious construction experience. By prioritizing professionalism and expertise, they contribute to the growth of London's real estate landscape while fostering positive neighbourly relationships.
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Party Wall Surveyor Nationwide
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The following fees are indicative for a small project [rear extension], as Building Owner Surveyor. All fees are subject to a formal fee quote.
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Preparation of Notices
£29*
The first step is to notify neighbours of the works and their rights under the Party Wall Act. This is a legal obligation and fulfilled by serving notices that allow the neighbour the option of either agreeing for the works to proceed without a full Party Wall Award, or to have an Award drawn up.
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In event it is agreed that no Party Wall Award is required, it can still be beneficial to produce a Schedule of Condition.
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The Party Wall Award
£450*
Having served the notices, where the neighbour, or both parties prefer to have a Party Wall Award drawn up, the Party Wall Act terms this a 'dispute'.
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In practice it doesn't necessarily mean a disagreement, just that both parties want to protect their property and rights by recording the nature of the works to avoid future disagreement, litigation and costs. This is done by creating a Party Wall Award.
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Acting as 'Agreed Surveyor'
Included within award price.
The Party Wall Act allows the neighbour to the works to have their own surveyor appointed and paid for by the building owner.
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This is where costs can rise significantly. On simple projects, if we can get agreement of the neighbour, we will act for both parties as Agreed Surveyor, saving substantial costs.
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Schedule of Condition
£220*
Even where no formal Award is created, it is highly advisable to record the condition of the affected area of the neighbour's property at the outset, thereby protecting both parties interests.
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This can also be requested by the adjoining neighbour.
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Review of plans to identify required notices.
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Legal searches to identify legal 'neighbours' [freeholders, leaseholders, tenants]
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Contact with neighbours, completion and serving of the required notices.
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Act as Building Owner Surveyor
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Drafting and serving of the Party Wall Award.
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Providing 'Ten Day Notices' in event neighbour does not respond.
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Making required appointments on behalf of the building owner.
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Conduct site visit and inspection of neighbouring property affected areas.
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Visual and photographic inspection in production of schedule.
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Follow up inspection at completion of the works.