Party Wall Notice: Consent or Dissent? What Should You Do?
Party Wall Notice: Consent or Dissent? What Should You Do?
Receiving a Party Wall Notice means you have an important decision tomake: consent to the proposed works or dissent and request a formal Party WallAward. Both options are valid under the Party Wall etc. Act 1996, but eachoffers a different level of protection, formality and involvement.Understanding the pros and cons helps you choose the right approach for yourproperty and circumstances.
Consenting to the Works
Consenting is the simplest route. It allows the building owner to beginthe works without appointing surveyors or preparing a Party Wall Award.
Pros of consenting
- Simple process that avoids delays.
- No surveyor fees (saving your neighbour money).
- Smoother neighbour relationship with less formality.
Cons of consenting
- Less formal protection if something goes wrong.
- No Schedule of Condition to record your property’s condition beforehand.
- Reliance on trust rather than a legal framework.
Consenting is often chosen for minor works or where the adjoining ownerhas full confidence in the building owner and contractor. However, it doesreduce the level of formal protection available.
Dissenting and Requesting a Party Wall Award
Dissenting is not about being obstructive. It simply activates thestatutory process designed to protect both parties and ensure the works arecarried out correctly.
Pros of dissenting
- Legal protection through a formal Party Wall Award.
- Surveyor oversight to ensure works to the Party Wall are properly managed.
- Condition report safeguarding you against damage.
Cons of dissenting
- Possible delays while the Award is prepared.
- Surveyor costs - usually paid by the building owner, though not always straightforward.
- More formal process which may feel strained between neighbours.
For many adjoining owners, dissenting provides reassurance, clarity anda professional structure that reduces risk throughout the project.
Which Option Should You Choose?
Your decision depends on:
- The type and scale of the works
- Your confidence in the contractor
- The condition of your property
- Your relationship with the building owner
- Whether you prefer informal trust or formal protection
Dissenting simply puts a professional framework in place to protecteveryone involved. It ensures the statutory process is followed and providesclear documentation and agreed procedures throughout the works.
Customer retention is the key
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What are the most relevant factors to consider?
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What’s the ideal customer retention rate?
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Next steps to increase your customer retention
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