When it happens
Normally once the work affecting the neighbour is complete, which may be well before the whole project is finished. Some awards set a timescale; otherwise it is arranged when the building owner confirms the relevant work is done.
What is checked
- Cracks and plaster damage near the shared wall
- Doors and windows that have started to stick
- Roofs, flashings and gutters near the work
- Garden walls, paths and anything affected by access or scaffolding
How damage is dealt with
The surveyors decide what is down to the work and what making good is needed. The neighbour can ask for a payment instead of having the building owner's contractor do the repairs. See repair or payment.
Damage that shows later
Settlement cracks can take months to appear. If something shows up after the final inspection, report it promptly with dated photographs.
Common questions
Is a final inspection compulsory?
The Act does not require one, but it is standard practice and is often provided for in 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.