Changes to a property which might fall under the Party Wall Act include: Demolishing a party wall or any part of it Cutting into a party wall Changing the structural support beams, such as putting in RSJs Constructing a new building at the boundary of two properties, including a garage or shed Carrying out a loft conversion. Digging beneath the foundations of a party wall, such as creating a basement Damp proof installation Permission is not normally required for routine changes to a party wall such as changing an electrical socket, unless the work involves removing a section of the wall. Before doing any work that affects a party wall, you must check whether your project is covered by the Party Wall Act. Your local planning or building control departments will not tell you, so it is essential to take legal advice from a specialist party wall solicitor.