The building owner is responsible
The Act requires the building owner to compensate neighbours for loss or damage resulting from work done under it. The award sets out how that is handled, and money due under the Act can be recovered as a civil debt.
When your insurer may get involved
- Serious damage that needs urgent repairs
- A building owner who will not pay, or cannot
- Damage that is not clearly linked to the work
An insurer that pays your claim may then pursue the building owner itself.
Before the work starts
- Read your policy for anything about building work next door.
- Photograph your home near the shared wall.
- Make sure a schedule of condition is taken.
Tell your insurer about serious damage
Even if you expect the building owner to pay, it is usually sensible to tell your insurer about significant damage, in case you need to claim later.
Common questions
Will claiming on my own insurance raise my premium?
It may. That is another reason to pursue the building owner first, under the award.
Where this comes from in the Act
Links go to the official text of the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 on legislation.gov.uk.