Party wall agreement/essential?

[Andyk78]

Hi chaps,

Considering taking out the chimney breast on the ground floor only, it's on the party wall and my question is do i HAVE to get a party wall agreement?
Also will I need planning or am I right in thinking just building regs? Will building regs want drawings or just a description of the works. Or can we submitt a building notice instead and just push on with the work/how does a building notice work and what's the upside of it?
If I just inform the neighbour of what I am doing and get them to sign something to say I'm ok to proceed is this ok?
I have looked into the subject a little but still confused
Help and advice appreciated as always

 

[Andyk78]

Ok thanks for the advice.......oh wait a minute no ones given any
Come on lads it's lonely here

 

[^woody^]

You don't need planning permission, only building regs, and that is just for the structural support when the breast is removed. A building notice is enough , no plans required

The Party Wall Act will apply, but there is no penalty for not following it

You don't need the neighbours permission, so getting them to sign something is meaningless and does not give any rights or protection to either of you

Whatever you do or don't do, or get signed, you are still liable under common law for any damage you cause to the neighbours property

 

[Andyk78]

Thanks Woody clear answer and the exact info I needed. Many thanks