Party Wall Definition and Legal Meaning

On this page, you'll find the legal definition and meaning of Party Wall, written in plain English, along with examples of how it is used.

What is Party Wall?

It is referred to the wall created on the boundary of the two properties and which serves as a common structure between the two premises owned by different parties.The wall may be partly on each property or fully on ones property but is still a common structure. It is the duty of party of each property to maintain the wall.

History and Meaning of Party Wall

The Party Wall Act, which was passed by the UK Government in 1996, defines a party wall as a wall which is situated on the boundary line between two properties, and which is shared by the owners of those properties. The wall may be wholly on one property or partly on both properties. The purpose of this wall is to provide a structure which both parties can use.

The Party Wall Act regulates the procedures relating to party walls and aims to avoid disputes between neighbours, by providing a framework for agreed works to be done on the party wall.

Examples of Party Wall

When Mark wants to build an extension to his house, he needs to notify his neighbours as the planned construction involves work on the party wall.
Sally and Tom share a party wall which separates their semi-detached homes.
The party wall has developed a crack due to the age of the building and both property owners need to agree to repair it.
A new neighbour wants to extend their kitchen, which will impact the party wall, so John is served with a party wall notice.

Legal Terms Similar to Party Wall

Easement - a non-possessory property right allowing one party to use another party's property for a specific purpose.
Restrictive Covenant - a legal obligation not to perform certain actions on a property.
Adverse possession - a doctrine in common law where a person who does not have legal title to a property gains ownership after residing on the property without challenge for a specific period.