PWS Southend homeowner resource
Clear answers to your Party Wall questions
Explore practical, plain-English guides covering common building projects, Party Wall Notices, surveyor appointments, costs and the protections available under the Party Wall etc. Act 1996.
Browse our Party Wall guides
Start with your type of building work or choose the part of the Party Wall process you need help understanding.
Loft Conversions
When steel beams, party structures and chimney alterations may require notice.
Rear Extensions
Boundary walls, new foundations and excavation beside neighbouring buildings.
Excavation Near Neighbours
Understand the 3-metre and 6-metre rules before digging foundations.
Installing Steel Beams
What happens when beams or padstones are supported by a party wall.
Chimney Breast Removal
Party Wall considerations when removing or supporting a shared chimney breast.
Party Wall Notices
The notice types, statutory periods and possible neighbour responses explained.
Schedules of Condition
How a written and photographic record helps protect both property owners.
Party Wall Awards
When an Award is needed, what it contains and how surveyors agree it.
Costs and Surveyor Fees
Notice, inspection and Award costs—including who normally pays them.
Adjoining Owners
Your choices and protections after receiving a notice from a neighbour.
Need information for your situation?
Visit our Building Owner guidance, Adjoining Owner guidance or see our current Party Wall fees.
Ask PWS Southend
Send us your plans or the notice you received for clear initial guidance.
Watch: The Party Wall Process Explained
This short video from PWS Southend introduces the Party Wall process and helps property owners across Southend-on-Sea and the surrounding area understand when advice, notices or surveyor involvement may be required.