If you are planning on carrying out construction work on a shared wall between two properties, you will need to ensure that you have a party wall agreement in place. This is a legal document that outlines the rights and responsibilities of both parties involved in the construction process.
Thankfully, obtaining a party wall agreement doesn`t have to cost you a fortune. There are numerous free party wall agreement forms available online that you can use to draft your own agreement. However, it`s important to note that these forms should only be used as a starting point, and they will need to be personalized to suit the specifics of your project.
Before you begin drafting your party wall agreement, make sure you understand the different types of party walls. These include:
– A wall that sits on the boundary between two properties and is used by both parties
– A wall that belongs to one party but is used by the other
– A wall that is built entirely on one property, but is close enough to the boundary to potentially impact the adjacent property
Once you`ve determined which type of party wall you`re dealing with, you can begin drafting your agreement. The key components of a party wall agreement include:
– A description of the works that are planned
– The start and end dates of the works
– Details of any access required to either property during the construction process
– A schedule of condition, which is essentially a record of the condition of the properties prior to the commencement of works
– Provisions for dispute resolution in the event of disagreements between the parties
It`s important to note that once the party wall agreement has been drafted, it must be served on the other party. They then have 14 days to respond, either giving their consent or providing a counter-notice. If there is no response within this timeframe, a dispute resolution procedure may need to be followed.
In conclusion, obtaining a party wall agreement form for free is possible, but it`s essential that you take the time to personalize it to your specific project. Failing to do so could result in disputes and delays down the line. Always consult with a professional before starting any construction work that impacts a shared wall.