Listed building consent
Work that affects the character of a listed building, including many alterations to party walls, chimney breasts and roofs, needs listed building consent as well as any planning permission. A party wall award does not authorise work that needs a consent you do not have, because work under the Act must comply with other legal requirements.
When it is your neighbour's home that is listed
Work on your side can still affect their listed fabric, for example cutting into a shared wall or digging beside old, shallow foundations. Expect their surveyor to look closely at methods and to want a detailed record of condition.
Conservation areas
Conservation area status mainly affects demolition and external appearance. It does not change party wall procedures, but it can influence what you are allowed to build near the boundary.
Practical tips
- Talk to the council's conservation officer early.
- Choose builders who are used to older buildings.
- Allow for a more detailed schedule of condition, covering historic features near the work.
Common questions
Can the party wall surveyors approve work to a listed party wall?
They settle the party wall issues. Whether the work is allowed at all is for the council, through listed building consent.
Where this comes from in the Act
Links go to the official text of the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 on legislation.gov.uk.