If you are planning a renovation that involves changes to a shared wall in the City of Toronto, you may need to obtain a party wall agreement.

A party wall agreement is a legal document that outlines the rights and responsibilities of both property owners involved in a construction project that affects a shared wall or boundary. This agreement ensures that any work carried out on the shared wall is done safely and without causing damage to either property.

In the City of Toronto, the By-law No. 569-2013 regulates party wall agreements. According to the by-law, property owners are required to obtain a party wall agreement if the proposed renovation affects a shared wall between two semi-detached or row houses, or if the proposed renovation involves any excavation within 3 meters of an adjoining property.

To obtain a party wall agreement, both property owners must agree to the terms outlined in the agreement, which include details such as the nature of the proposed work, the estimated start and end date of the project, and the responsibilities of each party.

It is important to note that obtaining a party wall agreement can be a time-consuming process, as it may involve hiring a party wall surveyor to assess the condition of the shared wall and to ensure that the proposed work meets the necessary standards. Additionally, the cost of the surveyor`s fees is typically split between both property owners.

In conclusion, if you are planning a renovation that involves a shared wall in the City of Toronto, it is important to familiarize yourself with the party wall agreement requirements outlined in By-law No. 569-2013. This will ensure that any work carried out is done safely and without causing damage to either property, while also protecting both property owners` rights and interests.