Lead flashings are an essential but often overlooked feature of many homes. They play a critical role in protecting your property from water damage and ensuring the longevity of your building structure. In this blog post, we will explore the purpose of lead flashings, who is responsible for maintaining them, and how lead flashing works may be subject to Section 2 of the Party Wall etc. Act 1996.
What Are Lead Flashings and Why Are They Important?
Lead flashings are thin strips of lead installed at junctions or intersections on a building’s roof to create a watertight seal. These areas typically include:
The joint between a roof and a wall
Around chimneys and roof valleys
Between dormer windows and the roof
The primary purpose of lead flashings is to prevent water from seeping into the structure of the property, which can cause dampness, mould growth, and structural damage over time. Lead is used due to its durability, flexibility, and resistance to corrosion, making it a long-lasting solution for weatherproofing.
Who Is Responsible for Maintaining Lead Flashings?
The responsibility for maintaining lead flashings typically falls on the property owner. However, in situations where two properties share a boundary wall or where the flashing is installed on a party wall, maintenance responsibilities may require cooperation between neighbours.
It is important for homeowners to regularly inspect their lead flashings for signs of wear and tear, such as cracks, lifting, or corrosion. Prompt repairs can prevent costly water damage and maintain the integrity of your property.
Lead Flashing Works and the Party Wall Act
The Party Wall etc. Act 1996 governs works that affect shared or adjoining structures between properties, including party walls, boundary walls, and party fence walls. Section 2 of the Act outlines the types of work that require notice to be served on neighbouring property owners.
Lead flashing works may come under Section 2 of the Act if they involve:
Cutting into the Party Wall: If the repair or replacement of lead flashings requires cutting into a shared wall, this is considered a “notifiable” work under the Act.
Making the Party Wall Weatherproof: Works to install or repair flashings to prevent water ingress can also fall within the scope of the Act.
If you plan to carry out works involving lead flashings on a party wall, you must serve a Party Wall Notice to your neighbour at least two months before starting the work. This allows your neighbour to:
Consent to the proposed works
Dissent and request a Party Wall Award
It’s important to engage a professional party wall surveyor to help navigate this process and ensure compliance with the Act. A surveyor can assess the impact of the works, prepare a detailed schedule of condition, and help resolve disputes if they arise.
Understanding the purpose and maintenance of lead flashings is essential for homeowners who want to protect their properties from water damage. When these works involve a party wall, compliance with the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 is crucial. By staying informed and seeking professional guidance, you can ensure that your home remains weatherproof and structurally sound while maintaining positive neighbourly relationships.
If you need advice or assistance with lead flashing works or any other party wall matters, feel free to contact us for expert guidance and support.
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