Villa Extensions · Shared Walls

Do I need my neighbour's consent to build next to a shared wall?

Yes. Building next to a shared wall needs your neighbour's consent, plus the developer NOC and building permit.

The short answer

Yes. Building against or next to a shared wall, for example in a townhouse or semi-detached villa, needs your neighbour's consent, as well as the developer NOC and the building permit. The design must not overload or damage the shared wall, so the structural calculations check it. Structural Solutions designs the works, prepares the calculations and applies once consent is in place.

Neighbour consentYes
AlsoDeveloper NOC and permit
DesignMust protect the shared wall

What you need to know

  • Townhouses: Shared walls are common.
  • Structure: The shared wall must not be overloaded.
  • Damage: If the wall cracks, get an assessment.
  • Approvals: NOC and permit after consent.

Documents you may need

  • Title deed and owner ID
  • Affection plan or site plan
  • Existing drawings or as-built drawings
  • Photos of the area
  • Developer NOC (where the community has a developer)

Who does what

Step by step

We confirm the exact route for your project.

StepApproval routeGuides
Check what is allowed
Structural Solutions
Community guidelines, floor area and the existing structure.GFA rules
Drawings and calculations
Structural Solutions
Architectural drawings and stamped structural calculations.Structural calculations
Developer NOC
Developer
Where the community has a developer.Developer approvals
Building permit
Approved consultant → DM, DDA or Trakhees
Depending on the area.Approvals
Inspection and completion
Developer and authority
Owner letter and completion certificate.Sign-off

Questions

Related questions

What if my neighbour refuses?

The works next to the shared wall cannot go ahead.

Can I raise the shared wall?

It needs consent and approval.

My neighbour's works cracked our wall: what now?

Get a structural assessment and report.

Who prepares the drawings?

We do.

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