The usual contents
Who and where. The names of both owners, the addresses, and the surveyors and their appointment dates.
The notices. Which notices were served and when, so the award shows it rests on valid paperwork.
The work. A description of what the building owner may do, usually referring to attached drawings.
The drawings. Plans, sections and structural details showing the work affecting the neighbour.
The schedule of condition. A record of the neighbour's property before work starts, with photographs.
How the work is done. Requirements such as protection to the neighbour's property, the method for cutting into the wall, temporary support and weatherproofing.
Hours and duration. Permitted working times and, sometimes, an expected timescale.
Access. Whether the builder may enter the neighbour's land and on what terms.
Damage. What happens if damage occurs: making good or payment.
Costs. Who meets the surveyors' fees and other costs.
Appeal. A note of the right to appeal within 14 days.
Signs of a good award
- It is specific to the project rather than generic
- The drawings attached match what the builder will actually do
- It deals with the real risks of the job, such as weatherproofing on a loft or sequencing on a basement
Keep it safe
Give your builder a copy and keep the original. A buyer's solicitor may ask to see it when you sell.
Where this comes from in the Act
Links go to the official text of the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 on legislation.gov.uk.