Party Wall Surveyor Chelmsford

Chelmsford, a vibrant city nestled in the heart of Essex, England, offers a diverse array of housing options. The city's real estate landscape showcases a fusion of historic charm and contemporary convenience. The historic heart of Chelmsford features stunning Victorian and Edwardian houses, often adorned with well-maintained gardens and intricate architectural details, reflecting its rich heritage.

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Away from the city center, Chelmsford offers a variety of housing styles, including traditional cottages, terraced houses, and modern developments. Many properties are surrounded by the picturesque Essex countryside, while others are conveniently located near the bustling city amenities. Chelmsford's housing market caters to a wide range of preferences, making it a sought-after location for those seeking a lively, character-filled, and well-connected place to call home.

Much of the housing in Chelmsford is either terraced or semi-detached, often positioned close to neighbouring properties.

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When carrying out building work close to the boundary or on a party wall in Chelmsford, the Party Wall Act may apply. For example, if you are planning a loft conversion, it's common for steel beams to be integrated into the party wall along with padstones or steel bearing plates. It is also common to raise the party wall, often in timber frame with vertical tile hanging or other types of cladding, which may require stripping off roof tiles to build a dormer. These situations necessitate serving a party wall notice to your neighbour.

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Another frequent building project in Chelmsford is adding an extension either to the rear or the side of a property. Let’s start with the foundations. If they will be deeper than your neighbor's foundations and within 3 meters of them, you will need to serve a Section 6 Party Wall Excavation Notice one month before you intend to commence work. This notice must be accompanied by a plan and section drawing of the excavation and the walls that will be built on top of it.

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If the extension will be built up to the boundary, or as the Party Wall Act refers to it, the line of junction, there are two options. The wall can either be built astride the boundary, or on the building owner's side but up to the boundary. You cannot build a party wall astride the boundary without your neighbours permission.

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If you are planning building work near your boundary and your property is in Chelmsford, feel free to contact Bluegrass Surveying as your local party wall surveyors. They can provide free and impartial help and advice, serve party wall notices for you, and act as your party wall surveyor should it be necessary.