Glossary
Party Wall etc. Act 1996
The Party Wall etc. Act 1996 provides a framework for preventing and resolving disputes when building work affects shared walls, boundary walls or nearby excavations in England and Wales. It requires notice, and often a surveyor-led award, before notifiable work starts.
It does not replace planning permission or Building Regulations approval.
The Act applies in England and Wales only.
Official source: Party Wall Act explanatory booklet (GOV.UK). Checked 27 October 2026.