At what stage do we need to start the Party Wall Agreement process?

[nikki1978]

We have just been approved for a large rear extension which also goes into the side return plus a loft conversion. We are now sorted the structural engineer and the building regs. Slightly unsure when the party wall stuff needs to be sorted - before we start building I assume?

ASAP incase your neighbours want to appoint a surveyor-ours took about 2 months due to them faffing....,

Your neighbours will have a certain period (I think it's two weeks?) to formally reply to your letter. Make sure they know that in advance - when it's happening and what your letter is going to say.

If they don't reply, they are assumed to be unhappy with your plans, and you will end up having to appoint a surveyor for them. Which is well and good and part of the process if there is actually a disagreement, but somewhat irritating if it happens just because your neighbour went skiing on a whim voice of bitter experience.

Worth not doing it too early though as I think they expire after a year (or so?)..