Building conservatories on a party wall

With summer fast approaching, Britons may be planning home improvements that allow them to make the best use of both natural light and their outdoor space - such as conservatories ( http://www.force8.co.uk/conservatories.php ).

However, if they are planning to build their extension against a party wall - one shared with a neighbour - there are steps people should take before they begin work.

One Daily Mail reader recently enquired what steps they needed to take before they began to erect a conservatory against such a boundary.

Responding, the newspaper's Ross Clark said that on occasion, a neighbour may oppose the plans and ask the homeowners to first prove that they have joint ownership of the wall in question.

"The standard procedure is that two months before starting work you must write to your neighbour informing [them] exactly what you want to do and when you plan to start," he added.

If the neighbour objects, Britons must then hire the services of an independent surveyor, Mr Clark continued.

People keen to build conservatories in time for the summer could also seek advice from specialist stores such as Stockport ( http://www.force8.co.uk/ )double glazing supplier Force 8 to find out more about the planning permission they will require for such work.

See a full range of quality Composite Doors, Double Glazing ( http://www.force8.co.uk/index.php ) and conservatories ( http://www.force8.co.uk/conservatories.php ).

Written by Alison Goldman