Process will be impacted by COVID-19 and resulting delays.
The Project & Building Consultancy team at Colliers International has provided guidance for those who are dealing with Party Wall Notices during the evolving COVID-19 situation.
Michael Cooper FRICS, head of neighbourly matters, commented: “As offices have followed the Government’s advice and closed for at least three weeks, there is plenty that can still happen behind the scenes.
“While some construction projects are put on hold during this time, it provides an opportunity for project managers and surveyors to get ahead of some of the paperwork involved in a scheme, to ensure projects can start again with gusto once social distancing protocols have been lifted.”
He cautioned that delays resulting from the COVID-19 crisis could result in an uptick in the issuing of Party Wall Notices and stressed that it is more important now than ever to ensure that they are responded to in a timely and correct manner.
Michael continued: “This is an opportune time to arrange for Party Wall Notices to be issued, and if these are not responded to within the 14 day period, they could stand without challenge. It is very simple to lodge a reply to notice, however it must be completed within the two week period.
“If you are a client, send on any notices to our team and we’ll be able to reserve your position and enable the matter to be properly considered. We can work with those involved to ensure necessary site visits and surveys are deferred to be undertaken at the appropriate point when restrictions are lifted and before works begin again.
“Not only will Party Wall be considered, we can also investigate Right to Light infringements, oversail considerations, as well as reciprocal crane rights for any future projects you also have in the pipeline.”
For further information contact Michael Cooper and Cathryn Buckland.
