HERE WE EXPLAIN ABOUT WHAT’S A SECTION 2 OF THE PARTY WALL ACT. IF YOU ARE NOT SURE PLEASE CONTACT US FOR MORE INFORMATION.
Section 2 of the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 sets out the types of work a homeowner can legally carry out on a shared or adjoining wall, such as cutting into, raising, rebuilding, or repairing it.
However, it requires that the adjoining neighbour be given formal notice before any work begins.
Section 2 of the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 explains the kind of work that a building owner can do by law. This work can be done on a party wall, a boundary wall, or a joining structure.
This includes things like cutting into a wall, for example, to put in beams. It also covers raising or rebuilding a party wall, or doing work to fix important parts of a wall that may change a wall that is shared.
But, before you start any of this work, the Act says you must officially tell your neighbour. You usually need to give them one or two months’ notice, depending on what the work is. If your neighbour says yes, the project can go ahead.
If this does not happen, a Party Wall Surveyor needs to be appointed to sort out the issue and make a legally binding Party Wall Award.
Section 2 helps to keep both you and your neighbour safe. It makes sure everyone knows about the work. This also helps the work be done in a safe and legal way.
If you aren’t sure if your project is under Section 2, Jason Edworthy – Your Local Party Wall Surveyors – can look at your plans and help you with the steps you need to take.
Section 2 of the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 says you must tell your neighbour before you start some building or repair work. The law lists many jobs that need you to give notice before work begins. This helps keep things clear for both you and your neighbour.
These works typically affect a shared or adjoining structure and are most common in home extensions, loft conversions, and basement renovations.
Here are the most common types of works covered:
Cutting into a party wall – e.g. to insert steel beams, joists, or support for a loft conversion.
All of these works require proper notice to be served under Section 2 before they begin. If the adjoining owner consents, work can proceed. If not, a Party Wall Surveyor—like Jason Edworthy – Your Local Party Wall Surveyors—can help resolve the matter through a Party Wall Award, ensuring your project stays legally compliant and neighbour-friendly.
If your construction work involves a shared wall or boundary, it’s important to understand your obligations under Section 2 of the Party Wall Act.
This checklist highlights the key points to help you prepare and avoid problems:
1. Determine if Section 2 Applies
If you plan to cut into, raise, rebuild, or underpin a party wall, Section 2 rules apply. Knowing this early helps you comply with the law.
2. Serve Notice to Neighbours
You must notify your adjoining owners at least two months before starting work. This formal notice allows them to understand the project and respond.
3. Provide Clear Plans and Details
Sharing accurate drawings and explanations reduces confusion and helps neighbours feel informed.
4. Agree on Party Wall Surveyors
If neighbours agree, work can proceed smoothly. If not, appointing one or more surveyors will ensure a fair agreement through a Party Wall Award.
5. Plan for Timing and Delays
Serving notices and resolving disputes can take time, so build this into your project schedule to avoid unexpected hold-ups.
6. Keep All Documentation
Keep records of notices served, responses, and agreements to protect yourself if disputes arise.
7. Use Experienced Local Surveyors
Working with trusted experts like Jason Edworthy, your local party wall surveyors provider, ensures the process is handled correctly, helping to keep your project stress-free.
When it comes to Section 2 of the Party Wall Act, there are several misunderstandings that often cause confusion:
“I Don’t Need a Notice If It’s Just Minor Work”
Many believe small changes don’t require a party wall notice, but any work affecting a shared wall, no matter how minor, usually needs notification.
“Neighbours Can Stop My Work”
While neighbours can raise concerns, they cannot outright block lawful work if the correct procedures under Section 2 are followed.
“I Can Start Work Immediately After Serving Notice”
You must wait at least two months after serving the notice before beginning work to allow neighbours time to respond.
“The Party Wall Surveyor Works Only for Me”
Surveyors appointed under the Act are impartial and act fairly for both parties, ensuring a balanced outcome.
“I Don’t Need a Party Wall Agreement for Boundary Fences or Gardens”
Section 2 specifically covers shared walls and structures, so garden fences usually fall outside its scope.
Understanding these facts helps avoid delays, disputes, and legal issues during your building project.
