Party Walls
Boundary Disputes
The Party Wall etc. Act 1996 deals not only with ‘party walls’, but also with ‘etceteras’; these include new structures built on or near the boundary and excavations in close proximity to neighbouring buildings. For more information download the RICS Party Wall Consumer Guide or visit the website of the Pyramus & Thisbe Society for party wall surveyors.
The Land Registry title plan only shows the general boundary to a property; it does not define the exact legal boundary. Physical boundaries can change over time, for many reasons; these changes often go unrecorded and may lead to disputes. For more information download the RICS Boundary Disputes Consumer Guide.
Access to Neighbouring Land
Licences for crane oversailing, scaffold access, etc.
The Access to Neighbouring Land Act 1992 grants important rights to assist owners with the repair and maintenance of their buildings – but there are limitations in its practical application and it does not apply to all circumstances where access may be desirable.
For new building works, adjoining owners or developers do not generally have the right to erect a scaffold on your land or to swing a crane in your airspace. However, you may wish to grant a licence to allow these operations, on agreed terms and at a reasonable charge.