Party Wall Disputes: Resolve a Dispute
Expert Commercial Law have a panel of party wall solicitors on hand to assist clients. Arrange a consultationParty wall disputes can arise between neighbouring property owners and can be a source of significant tension and conflict. When two or more properties share a common boundary, such as a garden wall, fence, or boundary line, it becomes a party wall. These disputes commonly occur when one party wishes to carry out construction or renovation work that could potentially affect the existing party wall or the adjacent property.
Party wall disputes can vary in nature and complexity, ranging from minor disagreements over repairs to major conflicts regarding the scope and impact of proposed building works. They often involve legal and structural considerations that require careful attention and resolution.
Understanding the legal framework and the processes involved in party wall disputes is crucial for both property owners and professionals in the construction industry. It is essential to have a clear understanding of the rights and obligations of each party. Additionally, it is important to understand the steps required to initiate and respond to party wall notices.
What is the law surrounding party wall disputes?
In the United Kingdom, party wall disputes are governed by the Party Wall Act 1996. This legislation provides a framework for the resolution of disputes that arise when building work affects party walls, boundary walls, or excavations near neighbouring properties.
The Act requires building owners planning construction or alteration work that may affect a party wall to serve a Party Wall Notice on their adjoining neighbours. This notice should outline the proposed works and provide relevant details, such as the intended start date and any access requirements.
Upon receiving a Party Wall Notice, the adjoining owner has three options: they can give their consent to the additional works, provide a dissenting response, or remain silent. If they dissent or fail to respond within 14 days, the case is deemed to be in dispute. Following this, the parties must appoint a party wall surveyor to resolve the matter.
The agreed surveyor involved in the dispute resolution process prepares a document known as a Party Wall Award (sometimes referred to as a party wall agreement or award). This award sets out the rights and obligations of both parties. It includes details of the proposed works, access arrangements, safeguards for the neighbouring property, and resolutions for any potential disputes.
Resolving wall disputes
Party wall disputes in the UK can be resolved in a variety of ways, depending on the specific circumstances of the case. Some common methods of resolving these disputes include the following:
- Negotiation and Mediation: The parties may attempt to reach a resolution through informal negotiations or through mediation. This is a process where an impartial third party (mediator) helps the parties to reach a mutually acceptable agreement.
- Arbitration: The parties may choose to submit their dispute to arbitration, which is a form of alternative dispute resolution where the parties agree to have their dispute resolved by an arbitrator or a panel of arbitrators.
- Expert evaluation or opinion: In some cases, parties may seek an expert evaluation or opinion on specific technical or professional aspects of the dispute. The expert’s evaluation can help the parties gain a better understanding of the issues involved and guide them towards a resolution.
- Litigation: If the parties are unable to reach a resolution through alternative dispute resolution methods, they may choose to appeal to the County Court. Whilst litigation is more costly and time-consuming, it may be necessary in certain cases.
Ultimately, the appropriate method of resolving a partnership or shareholder dispute will depend on the specific facts of the case and the preferences of the parties involved. Some disputes may be resolved quickly and informally, while others may require more formal and lengthy proceedings.
Role of party wall solicitors
Party wall dispute solicitors play a crucial role in assisting property owners involved in party wall disputes. Their expertise in the relevant laws and regulations, combined with their legal knowledge and negotiation skills, can help parties navigate the complexities of the dispute resolution process.
Party wall dispute solicitors provide legal advice on the rights, obligations, and procedures outlined in the applicable party wall legislation. They help property owners understand their legal position, assess the merits of their case, and determine the best course of action.
Engaging a party wall dispute solicitor early in the process can help property owners navigate the complexities of the dispute. They can ensure compliance with the law and increase the likelihood of a successful resolution. Solicitors provide expert guidance, protect their clients’ interests, and work towards achieving the best possible outcome in the party wall dispute.
Why choose us?
We only connect you with the best solicitors
All of the solicitors on our panel have the experience and expertise required to take on your case. Each solicitor is vetted before being allowed onto our panel and we only select the best in the business. All of our solicitor firms are authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA).
Our solicitors can also help with a number of other commercial claims, such as partnership disputes, breach of contract and CCJ removal.
Please contact us today using our enquiry form below, and a member of our team will be in touch with you.
Schedule Your Free Consultation
Please note, we are not a firm of solicitors; however, we maintain a panel of trusted and regulated legal experts. If you contact us in relation to a commercial law case, we will pass your case onto a panel firm in return for a fee from our panel firms. We will never charge you for passing on your case to a panel firm.