Party wall surveyor for chimney breast removal
Removing a chimney breast on a party wall needs a Section 2 notice and proper support for what's above.
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In short
Cutting away a chimney breast attached to a party wall is notifiable work under Section 2. Serve a party structure notice at least 2 months before work. You'll also need building regulations approval and proper support for any breast or stack left above.
Why it matters
In many Manchester terraces the chimney breasts sit on the party wall and the neighbour's flues may run alongside yours. Removing the breast on your side can affect the stability of the stack and your neighbour's fireplaces.
What we check
- Whether flues are shared or connected to the neighbour's side
- How the remaining breast or stack will be supported
- Structural engineer's details and building control approval
- The condition of the neighbour's chimney breasts and stack before work
Common questions
Can I remove a chimney breast without telling my neighbour?
No, if it's attached to the party wall. It's notifiable under Section 2.
Do I need building regulations approval?
Yes. Removing a chimney breast is structural work and needs building control approval, separate from the Party Wall Act.
Source: Party Wall etc. Act 1996 (applies in England and Wales).
Written by Guy Crouch BSc (Hons) MRICS, Director and Chartered Building Surveyor at Manchester Party Wall Surveyors. Last reviewed 26 October 2026. This page is general guidance, not legal advice. About our team
Planning work near a neighbour?
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