Do I need a party wall surveyor for my project in Highbury, London?
Highbury is a popular neighbourhood in North London, within the borough of Islington.
With its excellent transport links, diverse pubs, cafés and restaurants and green spaces, it’s no wonder many people are making it their “forever place”.
If you’re purchasing a property in Highbury or already living there, you may be considering a project to renovate or extend your home.
This can be a more affordable option compared to moving house and is something you may wish to do if you’re already settled in this vibrant area.
In this article, we’ll find out how a party wall surveyor in Highbury, London can help your building or renovation project with their expert guidance.
What’s a party wall?
A party wall is a boundary between two adjacent properties. It could be the wall that separates them — for example, for terraced or semi-detached houses.
A party wall could also be a garden wall that demarcates boundaries.
If you have a party wall, then you should know about the Party Wall Act 1996. It’s a piece of legislation that describes a property owner’s rights and responsibilities relating to their party wall.
The legislation also relates to excavations that may be planned within a certain radius of neighbouring garden walls or buildings.
Why would I need a party wall surveyor?
If you’re planning to do any work that affects the party wall, you must serve your neighbour a party wall notice in accordance with the Party Wall Act.
A party wall surveyor can help guide you through the process of serving the notice to your neighbour and the following steps.
The party wall notice will give information about your planned works. If your neighbour is happy with what you propose, you can get started on your project.
However, if they object to your plans or there are complications, your party wall surveyor will know the steps to take so you can progress with your project.
What are the next steps?
Your party wall surveyor will draw up a party wall agreement, setting out the conditions and expectations of your building project.
They will take care to ensure that the contents of the agreement are in line with the Party Wall Act and that it addresses any issues raised by your neighbour.
As part of this exercise, they will note the condition of your neighbour’s property, as well as access rights which may be essential for your team to carry out the planned work.
Having a knowledgeable expert on hand in this case means that you are fulfilling your legal duties and avoid the risk of incurring an injunction that puts a stop to your work.
It also means that you don’t have to worry about damaging your neighbour’s property and all the problems that could cause.
A party wall surveyor can also act as a mediator if your neighbour objects to your proposals. Having a third party to advocate on your behalf takes the emotion out of the situation and means you are less likely to fall out with your neighbour.
In short, a party wall surveyor can smooth the way for your building project, ensuring maximum chance of success and minimising disputes with neighbours.
This often means that your work progresses more quickly, saving you both time and money.
What’s more, if they work as part of a wider team in an architectural practice, for example, they can put you in touch with colleagues who can help you with other aspects of your project.
Party wall surveyor in Highbury, London
If you are planning a project in Highbury, London, why not reach out to an expert local party wall surveyor?
Their advice can make a real difference, helping you to make the most of your property and even saving you money.
Humphreys & Sons are a local, family-run business of party wall surveyors, chartered building surveyors and architects who can help support your project.
With experience in Highbury and around London and Essex, we’re your go-to experts to get your project off the ground.
Contact the team to know how we can help and support you with your building project.
Related Blogs
