Am I required to consult my neighbour/s about my proposed building work?

 

Department: Environment
Division: ENV/Building Control

No - Generally there are no requirements in the building regulations to consult your neighbours, but it would be sensible to do so. 

In any event, you should be careful that your proposed building work does not interfere with their property, as this could lead to bad feeling, and possibly civil action for the modification or removal of the work.  For example, your work may comply with the building regulations, but could result in the obstruction or malfunctioning of your neighbour's boiler flue.  

You should also check your boundary lines and satisfy yourself that there are no deeds of covenant which may prevent you carrying out certain types of building work close to, or directly adjoining, your neighbour's property.

Although consultation with your neighbours is not normally required under the building regulations, you should note that if your project is subject to the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 you must give notice to adjoining owners under that act. To obtain a free copy of an explanatory booklet on the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 please contact ODPM Free Literature on 0870 1226 236 or e-mail them.