How long does a party wall agreement last?

Tied to the notice

A party structure or excavation notice falls away if twelve months go by after service and work has not begun, unless it is afterwards pursued diligently. Once the notice has gone, an award built on it is of little use, and new notices are needed.

Tied to the work

An award authorises specific work, usually by reference to drawings. Different work, or a significantly changed design, needs an addendum award or a new one. See changing plans after the agreement.

During the work

The award governs the work until it is finished, including how any damage is dealt with.

After the work

Once the job is done and any damage has been put right, the award has served its purpose. Keep it with your property documents, because buyers' solicitors often ask about party wall matters. There is more on what buyers and sellers need to know.

Long pauses

If work starts and then stalls for months, the position can become unclear, particularly if nobody is pressing on with it. Ask your surveyor before restarting.