Party Wall Agreement Permitted Development: What You Need to Know
If you`re planning on carrying out any work on a shared wall between your property and your neighbor`s property, you`ll need to have a party wall agreement in place. But, what if you`re looking to undertake some minor works that fall under permitted development rights? Do you still need a party wall agreement?
In short, the answer is yes. Any work that involves a party wall, even if it falls under permitted development rights, will require a party wall agreement. Let`s take a closer look at what this means.
What is a Party Wall Agreement?
A party wall agreement (PWA) is a legally binding document that sets out the terms and conditions for carrying out work on a shared wall, boundary or structure between two or more adjoining properties.
The aim of a PWA is to protect the rights and interests of both property owners by ensuring that any works carried out on a party wall do not cause undue damage or disruption to the adjoining property.
Do I Need a Party Wall Agreement for Permitted Development?
Permitted development rights were introduced in 1995 to provide certain types of development with automatic planning permission, without the need for a planning application.
Examples of works that fall under permitted development include:
– Small extensions and conservatories
– Loft conversions
– Garage conversions
– Certain types of outdoor buildings such as sheds and garages
However, just because these works are permitted development does not mean that you can carry them out without a party wall agreement.
If the work involves a shared wall or structure, then a party wall agreement will still be required. This is because the PWA provides a legal framework for carrying out works on a party wall, regardless of whether they fall under permitted development or not.
What Does a Party Wall Agreement Cover?
A party wall agreement will typically contain the following elements:
– A description of the works to be carried out
– The start and end dates of the works
– Details of the party wall surveyors appointed by each property owner
– Details of any access required to carry out the works
– The procedures to follow for resolving any disputes that may arise during the works
– The conditions under which the works will be carried out, including any necessary safeguards to protect the adjoining property
By having these elements in place, both property owners can be confident that the works will be carried out safely and without undue interruption to their daily lives.
In Conclusion
Although it may seem like an unnecessary step, getting a party wall agreement in place for permitted development works is a crucial step in protecting your property and your neighbors` property. By working with a party wall surveyor, you can ensure that the agreement is comprehensive, covering all aspects of the works and any potential disputes that may arise.