Detached-house extensions and excavation checks
Party wall surveyor in Hillingdon
A detached house in Hillingdon may still need notice for a new boundary wall or qualifying excavation near a neighbouring structure. We check the wall position and foundation depths against the Act.
Start with the neighbouring structure
The absence of a shared house wall does not settle whether the Act applies. An extension's excavation can affect a neighbouring building within the statutory tests. Mark the neighbouring structures on the site plan rather than measuring only to a garden fence.
Provide sections that show foundation levels
For excavation, show the proposed depth and available information about the neighbouring foundations. The three-metre category depends on going below those foundations; the six-metre category uses the statutory downward 45-degree plane towards the excavation. If levels are unknown, say so rather than supplying an assumed depth.
A new wall is a separate notice question
A new wall at the boundary can engage section 1 independently of excavation. We consider whether it sits on your land or astride the boundary and explain the applicable consent route. Keep planning and building-control matters separate from these notices.
Reference: Party Wall Act excavation requirements.
Choose the service your situation needs
Party wall notices
Identify the appropriate notice type and serve it correctly.
Schedule of condition
A useful dated record of the adjoining property before relevant work begins.
Party wall awards
Determine matters in dispute and record the conditions for notified work.
Read the process for building owners or adjoining owners. See current fees and qualifications.
Questions about party wall work in Hillingdon
Can a detached home still need a party wall notice?
Yes. A new boundary wall or qualifying excavation near a neighbouring structure can engage the Act even without a shared house wall.
What if I do not know the neighbour's foundation depth?
Tell us what is known and provide the drawings. Further information may be needed before the excavation test can be assessed reliably.
Who normally pays the surveyor's fees?
The building owner normally pays reasonable surveyor costs. Under section 10(13), the surveyors determine who pays reasonable costs arising from the dispute. Check the written appointment terms as well as any award; we explain our invoicing arrangements before instruction.
Legal reference: Party Wall etc. Act 1996. The requirements depend on the work, notice and property interests.
Tell us what is planned
Send the relevant drawings or the notice you have received. We will explain the next step for your property in Hillingdon.
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