Extending a home in Winchester (Fulflood, Abbotts Barton, Stanmore, St Cross) often triggers the Party Wall etc. Act 1996. Here’s the homeowner-friendly summary.

When does the Party Wall Act apply?

• Works on a party wall/party structure (e.g., cutting in steel beams).
• Excavations within 3 m (sometimes 6 m) of neighbours’ foundations to certain depths.
• New walls on or up to the boundary line.

Simple 4-step process

1. Serve notice(s) to neighbours (Building Owner’s Notice / Line of Junction / Excavation).
2. Neighbour response: Consent or dissent within 14 days.
3. If dissent → surveyors appointed (agreed or separate).
4. Party Wall Award: Sets protective measures, access rights, method statements, schedule of condition.

Timelines & costs

• Notices: Serve 1–2 months before works.
• Awards: Typically 2–6 weeks after surveyor appointment.
• Fees: Vary; budget £1,000–£2,500+ depending on complexity and number of surveyors.

Winchester-specific tips

• In tight terraces (Fulflood/Hyde), early neighbour engagement reduces disputes.
• Coordinate Party Wall with planning and build-over sewer approvals to keep the programme on track.

FAQ
Can I start if neighbours haven’t replied? After 14 days non-response = deemed dissent → appoint surveyors.
Is Party Wall the same as planning? No — Party Wall is civil law, separate from planning/building regs.