Awards & Breaches

The work does not match the award

If the works on site differ from the award, first identify the difference and decide whether it actually affects your property or the statutory protections.
Clear, practical guidanceThis article is written for adjoining owners. For advice about your own notice, award or neighbour’s works, speak to Coburns Party Wall.

Compare the documents

Identify the awarded drawing, clause or method and the specific difference on site.

Ask whether the change is material

A change may be irrelevant to Party Wall matters or may materially alter excavation, support, weathering, access or work to the party structure.

Raise the issue promptly

Where the change matters, ask the building owner and surveyor for clarification before the relevant work proceeds further.

Seek a proportionate solution

The answer may be confirmation that the change is immaterial, an amended detail, additional protection or a further determination where jurisdiction exists.

Key takeaway

Do not challenge a revision number; challenge the consequence of a material change.

This page provides general information about the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 and common practice. It is not legal advice and does not replace advice on the facts of a particular matter.