Answer

Do you need advice on resolving party wall issues or boundary disputes?

If you are considering a major investment in an attic conversion, building a side or rear extension, building a shed or garage, or even structurally modifying a shared ceiling or floor, chances are high that you will run into a party wall or boundary wall.

Occasionally issues can arise when your old neighbour decides to sell an adjoining property. Will the new neighbour have a different understanding as to what exactly is the boundary wall and what can they build there without your consent.

A party wall is defined as any wall shared by two properties, often but not always, where the property boundary runs through the thickness of the wall. Apartments, flats, attic conversions, semi-detached terraced houses usually all have at least one and often more than one party wall shared with neighbours. It is always best to avoid a dispute with your neighbour over boundary or party walls as disputes can lead to expensive litigation costs.

It makes sense to get early advice on Party Wall matters because the true long term cost of angry and resentful neighbours is impossible to calculate financially. There are also significant legal, insurance and health and Safety responsibilities to consider if you propose to carry out work to a party or boundary wall under Irish Legislation.

Property Health Check together with your solicitor, can help resolve such problems.  Our part in the process may be to conduct a boundary check, provide a land registry compliant map or a certificate/declaration of identity. The information we provide is then used by your solicitor to  enable them to give you the right advice for your particular situation.