A Party Wall Award, also known as a Party Wall Agreement, is a legally binding document that is produced by party wall surveyors in accordance with the Party Wall etc. Act 1996.
It outlines the rights and responsibilities of both the building owner (the person or entity undertaking construction work) and the adjoining owner (the neighbor(s) affected by the construction) regarding the proposed work.
The Party Wall Award typically includes the following key components:
Details of the Parties: The names and addresses of the building owner, the adjoining owner(s), and the party wall surveyors are specified in the Award.
Description of the Work: The document describes the nature and scope of the construction work that is subject to the Party Wall Award. This may include architectural plans, engineering details, and other relevant project information.
Rights and Responsibilities: The Award outlines the rights and responsibilities of both parties, including the building owner’s rights to access the adjoining owner’s property (if necessary) and the obligations of each party to prevent damage to the adjoining owner’s property.
Work Schedule: A timeline for the construction work is often included, specifying when work can commence, how long it is expected to take, and any restrictions on noisy or disruptive work hours.
Surveyor’s Decisions: The Award may include decisions made by the appointed party wall surveyors regarding specific matters in dispute, such as the methods and timing of construction, the need for protective measures, and the resolution of any disagreements.
Security for Expenses: In some cases, the Award may require the building owner to provide security to the adjoining owner to cover the cost of potential damage resulting from the construction work.
Access Rights: The Award may specify the building owner’s rights to access the adjoining owner’s property for the purpose of carrying out the work, inspecting the party wall, or making necessary repairs.
Dispute Resolution: Procedures for resolving disputes or disagreements that may arise during the construction process are outlined in the Award. This may include provisions for additional surveys or inspections.
Signatures: The Award is typically signed by the party wall surveyors. Party Wall Surveyors have the legal right to sign awards on behalf of their appointing owners.