Neighbour considerations

Some common questions you may have about Building Regulations, planning and neighbours:

Do the Building Regulations require me to tell my neighbours that I intend to carry out building work?

No, however, dependant upon the position of the boundary to your land, the building work you intend to carry out as it relates to the boundary of your land, and the position of your neighbours’ buildings, you may need to inform all relevant neighbours. Details of when and where you must notify your neighbours are found in the Party Wall Act 1996.

Does the Council have to notify my neighbours that I have made a Building Regulation application?

No.

Can my neighbours object to the proposed building work shown on my Building Regulation application?

No, however, objections may be made under other legislation, for example if Planning Permission is required for the proposed building work

Do my neighbours have the right to inspect the plans deposited as part of my Building Regulation application?

No but, if you have also made an application for Planning Permission, those details are available for inspection by other people.

Whilst there is no requirement under the Building Regulations for you to consult your neighbours, it can be courteous to do so, and will often prevent future possible disagreements between the different parties.

Anything else worth considering?

• Have you shown a copy of your plans to your neighbours?
• Have you discussed your proposals with your neighbours?
• Do you need to serve a notice on your neighbours where required by the Party Wall etc Act 1996?
• Do you have the right to connect to your neighbours’ property?
• Will any part of your building encroach over your neighbours’ land?
• Do you intend to connect your drains to your neighbour’s inspection chamber?
• What about access for maintenance and cleaning?
• The proximity of opening windows, vents, outlets and flues to the boundary or adjacent buildings.
• Do you intend to carry out work during unsociable hours?

This list is not exhaustive and is only a general guide as to how to avoid difficulties arising during and after the construction process. If a dispute does arise this can only be settled between the interested parties. It does not include the Council since we have no jurisdiction in these matters