Creating a party wall agreement is a crucial step when it comes to undertaking any construction work that might affect a shared wall between two adjoining properties. This agreement is a legal document that outlines the rights and responsibilities of both parties involved in the construction project. It sets out how the work will be carried out and what measures need to be put in place to ensure that the shared wall remains undamaged.

If you are planning to undertake any construction work that will involve a shared wall, it is highly recommended that you create a party wall agreement. Here are the steps you need to take to create an effective party wall agreement.

1. Notify your neighbour

Before you start drafting a party wall agreement, you must notify your neighbour of your intentions to carry out the construction work. You should serve a written notice at least two months before the proposed start date of the work. The notice should include details such as the estimated start and end dates, the nature of the work, and how it might affect the adjoining property.

2. Employ a surveyor

Both parties should hire a surveyor who will act as a mediator between them. The surveyor will assess the condition of the shared wall, advise on the measures that need to be put in place to protect it and prepare the party wall agreement.

3. Draft the party wall agreement

The party wall agreement should detail the rights and responsibilities of both parties involved in the construction project. It should include information such as the nature of the work, how it will be carried out, the duration of the work, and the measures that need to be put in place to protect the shared wall.

4. Get it signed

Once the party wall agreement has been drafted, both parties must sign it. This will create a legally binding document that outlines the rights and responsibilities of all parties involved in the construction project.

5. Start work

After the party wall agreement has been signed, you are free to start the construction work. You must ensure that you follow all the measures outlined in the agreement to protect the shared wall and avoid causing any damage to your neighbour`s property.

In conclusion, creating a party wall agreement is an important step when undertaking any construction work that might affect a shared wall. It is important to notify your neighbour, employ a surveyor, draft the agreement, get it signed and follow all the measures outlined in the agreement to ensure that the work is carried out safely and without causing any damage to adjoining properties.