Party Wall query

[MaggieW]

Can I stop our neighbours from building on to the already existing loft party wall that is between our houses ie can we do anything to ensure that they build just inside their boundary? I don't want to stop them extending but they have two dogs who bark incessantly from 6am to late evening. The owners refuse to do anything about it. I don't want our loft bedroom, which isn't affected by the noise,to be another area of the house where we will be disturbed. Any advice please?

I don't think you can - all you can do is slow it down and be obstructive. If they are aware of this, then you might be able to negotiate that they put in some extra sound insulation - if the shared wall has a chimney on it then loft companies often box out the whole wall to get a straight run. If that area was to be stuffed with some insulation you might find it a bit quieter - you have my sympathies.

Have they written to you requesting a party wall agreement:-
www.communities.gov.uk/publications/planningandbuilding/partywall
If not then mention it to them and it may give you some levarage to discuss insulation.
The building regs are pretty clear about sound insulation too and this will be relevant if they ar creating a new room in the loft. Seek advice from your local authrity building control officer regarding this.
Good luck