Protection of Adjoining Properties
Building works can adversely affect neighbouring properties. If you are intending to carrying out building works, you have an obligation under the building act to protect and adjoining properties from potential damage.
If the work is close to other properties you may need to carry out protection works and you must notify all affected property owners. The notice must include information on the relevant protection works and you must obtain a response from all the affected property owners before a permit will be issued.
If protection works are required you must:
- Serve a Protection Work Notice on adjoining owners
- Get appropriate insurance
- Prepare a survey of adjoining property
- Pay expenses incurred
What rights and obligations does an adjoining owner have?
- Respond to the protection notice within 14 days
- Agree or disagree to proposed work or request further information
- Help the owner prepare the survey before work commences
- Seek reimbursement from the property owner for any reasonable expenses incurred
A general information sheet is available for download, however questions relating to specific obligations should be directed to the relevant building surveyor.
For more information please contact us on 1300 368 333 or email us