At a glance
- New wall at the boundary
- At least 1 month
- Work to a shared wall
- At least 2 months
- Excavation near foundations
- At least 1 month
- Neighbour's reply
- Within 14 days
The minimum periods
| Type of notice | Minimum period before work starts |
|---|---|
| Line of junction (new wall at the boundary) | 1 month |
| Party structure (work to a shared wall) | 2 months |
| Adjacent excavation | 1 month |
The period runs from the date the notice is served. Your neighbour can agree in writing to let work start sooner, and many do if they are relaxed about the project. You cannot assume they will.
Why the minimum is rarely the whole story
The notice period and the surveyors' work can run side by side, but if your neighbour dissents:
- each side appoints a surveyor, or they share one
- the surveyor inspects and records the condition of the neighbour's property
- the surveyors agree an award setting out how the work will be done
A straightforward award can often be served within the notice period. A complicated basement, or a slow response from either side, can take longer. Work under a dissented notice should not start until the award is in place.
Planning your build around the notice
- Serve early. As soon as you have drawings showing where beams, walls and foundations go, you can serve. You do not have to wait for planning permission.
- Tell your builder. Make sure their programme allows for the notice period, especially for loft work.
- Talk to your neighbour first. People who hear about a project face to face are far more likely to agree to it. See telling your neighbour.
- Do not leave it too long either. A notice generally lapses if work does not begin within 12 months. See when does a notice expire?
Common questions
Can my neighbour waive the notice period?
Yes. If they agree in writing, work can start before the full period has run.
Does the notice period include weekends and bank holidays?
The periods are expressed in calendar months and days, so weekends and holidays are not excluded.
Where this comes from in the Act
- Section 1: New building on line of junction
- Section 3: Party structure notices
- Section 6: Adjacent excavation and construction
Links go to the official text of the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 on legislation.gov.uk.