LATEST BLOG POSTS

Welcome to Peter Barry’s blog posts. You’ll find a range of topics focussing on issues that are important to our clients where we try to answer the questions that we regularly get asked.

Party Walls Explained

Friday, 27th March 2026 | by: Peter Barry

In this guide, we’re going to explain exactly what a party wall is and when the law applies. We deal with party wall matters across London every week, and most disputes start because people misunderstand this one point. So if you are planning building work or you have received a notice from your neighbour, you are in the right place. Let’s break it down clearly. What is a Party ...

In this guide, we’re going to explain exactly what a party wall is and when the law applies. We deal with party wall ...

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Party Wall Agreements Explained

Friday, 27th March 2026 | by: Peter Barry

In this guide, we’re going to explain exactly what a party wall agreement is, when you need one, and what it actually ...

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What Does a Party Wall Surveyor Do?

Friday, 27th March 2026 | by: Peter Barry

In this guide, we’re going to explain exactly what a party wall surveyor does and when you actually need one. Many ...

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Can Neighbours Refuse a Party Wall Agreement?

Friday, 27th March 2026 | by: Peter Barry

Yes, a neighbour can refuse to consent to a party wall notice. However, this doesn’t automatically stop your building ...

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Who Appoints a Party Wall Surveyor?

Friday, 27th March 2026 | by: Peter Barry

If a dispute arises under the Party Wall etc. Act 1996, a party wall surveyor must be appointed to resolve the ...

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A Guide to Serving a Party Wall Notice

Friday, 27th March 2026 | by: Peter Barry

If your building work falls within the scope of the Party Wall etc. Act 1996, you must notify your affected ...

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Can I Do a Party Wall Agreement Myself?

Friday, 27th March 2026 | by: Peter Barry

If you’re planning building work, you might be tempted to undertake the party wall process yourself. And while in some situations, you can manage parts of the process without appointing a surveyor, you can’t do the entire process yourself. In this beginner’s guide, we’ll show you what you can and can’t do during the party wall process, and when you will need a party wall surveyor ...

If you’re planning building work, you might be tempted to undertake the party wall process yourself. And while in some ...

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Does ChatGPT Know More Than Your Party Wall Surveyor?

Friday, 27th February 2026 | by: Matthew Price

AI tools are becoming many homeowners' first port of call when they receive a party wall notice. That's understandable — ...

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Rear Extensions and the Party Wall Act

Friday, 20th February 2026 | by: Peter Barry

This is a follow up to a recent post covering loft conversions and specifically which aspects of the work fall within the ...

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Loft Conversions and The Party Wall Act

Monday, 9th February 2026 | by: Peter Barry

Loft conversions and rear extension are the most common type of party wall related works that we assist owners with. I ...

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My party wall request was dealt with very quickly and all documents are now in place. Very professional attention and service.
Our surveyor, James, arrived at the house at the appointed time and was most helpful in explaining the details of the party wall agreement. He later sent the completed document as promised. Most efficient and friendly service throughout.
I was put at ease by the professional way In which this survey was conducted I highly recommend Peter Barry All aspects were considered my home Was examined for any potential problems That may be caused by the works being Carried out by the neighbouring property . Photos were skilfully recorded and a Drone was used to take pictures of the roof . Peter Barry Surveyor truly did a fantastic Job acting in a professional manner at all Times . And showing respect for my home And security and I can only prise them , Many Thanks Rachel
Response from the owner:Thank you, Rachel, for your lovely review. We’re really pleased to hear the survey put you at ease and that the team’s thorough approach — including the detailed photos and drone imagery — helped you feel fully protected. Your kind words about the surveyor’s professionalism and respect for your home mean a great deal.
I was a neighbour of someone who wanted to do some changes to their dormer into a full loft conversion. The surveyor sent to review our shared walls was very young professional and helped answer all my questions and concerns. The emails from the firm were very formal, else and they were very reachable by telephone. I didn’t pay as my neighbour was carrying out the works so I can’t comment there. I would consider using this firm for further works personally
Response from the owner:Thank you for sharing your experience. We’re really pleased to hear how well the surveyor supported you throughout your neighbour’s loft‑conversion process.
Very responsive and proactive. Would highly recommend
Response from the owner:Thank you, we appreciate your recommendation.
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