A party wall award is a legally binding document that outlines the details of party wall work agreed upon by surveyors acting on behalf of adjoining owners and the building owner. It essentially sets the rules for how the work will be carried out.
Here's a more detailed breakdown of what a party wall award encompasses:
-
Description of the Work: The award clearly states what specific work will be undertaken on the party wall. This prevents misunderstandings and ensures everyone is aware of the scope of the project.
-
Manner of Execution: It details how the work will be carried out. This might include specific methods of construction, noise reduction measures, or time restrictions.
-
Timetable: The award specifies when the work will be performed, outlining a timeline to minimize disruption to the adjoining owner.
-
Payment Responsibilities: Crucially, the award clarifies who is responsible for paying for each aspect of the work, including surveyor's fees. It determines how much each party will contribute. This is often related to who benefits from the work. For example, if the building owner is extending their property and the party wall work is necessary for that extension, they typically bear the full cost.
-
Condition of Adjoining Property: The award usually includes a "schedule of condition" of the adjoining property before the work begins. This acts as a baseline, allowing for accurate assessment of any damage that may occur during the works.
-
Dispute Resolution: The award typically outlines a process for resolving any disputes that may arise during the course of the work. This may involve referring the matter back to the appointed surveyors.
Why is a Party Wall Award Important?
- Legal Protection: It provides legal protection for both the building owner (the person carrying out the work) and the adjoining owner (the neighbor).
- Clarity and Agreement: It establishes a clear agreement on the scope, timing, and execution of the work, minimizing the potential for disputes.
- Financial Security: It clarifies financial responsibilities, preventing disagreements about payment.
- Peace of Mind: It offers peace of mind to both parties, knowing that the work will be carried out according to a legally binding agreement.
In summary, a party wall award is a vital document in the context of party wall matters, establishing a legal framework for proposed works and protecting the interests of all parties involved.
