What Do You Call a House with a Common Wall?
Have you ever wondered what a house with a shared wall is called? It's a common feature in many urban areas, especially in places where space is limited. This type of dwelling has a unique name and specific characteristics that differentiate it from other types of houses.
Understanding the Term "Common Wall"
A "common wall" refers to a wall that is shared by two or more houses, apartments, or other structures. It's not simply a wall that happens to be close to another structure, but one that is physically connected and serves as a boundary between the properties. This shared wall can be made of various materials, such as brick, concrete, or wood, and is typically constructed during the initial building process.
Types of Houses with Common Walls
There are several types of houses that feature common walls, and each has its own terminology:
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Semi-detached House: This is perhaps the most common type of house with a shared wall. As the name suggests, a semi-detached house is a single dwelling that is attached to another identical dwelling by a common wall. It often includes a shared garden area and may share certain utilities like a water supply or sewer line.
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Townhouse: Townhouses are similar to semi-detached houses, but they typically have a more narrow footprint and are often built in rows of three or more units. They share common walls with the houses on either side and might have a shared driveway or courtyard.
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Duplex: A duplex is a building that is divided into two separate residential units, usually with two floors each. Each unit has its own front door and entrance, but they share a common wall in the middle.
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Row House: These houses are built in a continuous row, with each house sharing a common wall on either side. They often have a narrow facade and are typical in urban areas with limited space.
Benefits of a House with a Common Wall
Living in a house with a common wall can offer some advantages, especially in urban environments:
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Reduced Noise: Common walls can help to reduce noise from neighboring houses, as they act as a barrier. This can be especially beneficial in densely populated areas.
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Shared Utilities: Some shared walls may include shared utilities such as water lines, sewer lines, or even heating systems. This can result in lower utility costs for the homeowners.
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Sense of Community: Living in close proximity to neighbors can foster a sense of community, especially in areas with townhouses or semi-detached houses.
Disadvantages of a House with a Common Wall
While there are benefits to living in a house with a common wall, there are also some drawbacks to consider:
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Less Privacy: Sharing a wall with your neighbor means you may have less privacy than you would in a detached house. Sounds from your neighbor's house may be more easily heard, and you may be able to hear their conversations or activities.
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Limited Customization: If you share a wall with a neighbor, you may have limited ability to renovate or change the structure of your house. You will need to coordinate with your neighbor and possibly obtain permission before making any significant alterations.
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Potential Disputes: Like any close proximity living situation, sharing a wall can sometimes lead to disputes between neighbors. This may involve noise levels, property maintenance, or other issues.
Things to Consider When Buying a House with a Common Wall
If you are considering buying a house with a common wall, it's important to factor in the following:
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Noise Levels: Listen carefully for noise from the neighboring house, especially during peak hours like evening or weekends.
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Maintenance Responsibilities: Make sure you understand who is responsible for maintaining the shared wall and any associated utilities.
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Building Regulations: Check the local building regulations and ensure that the shared wall meets all applicable standards.
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Neighbor Compatibility: It's always a good idea to get a sense of your potential neighbors and their lifestyles before making a decision.
Conclusion
A house with a common wall is a common feature in many residential areas. Whether it's called a semi-detached house, a townhouse, or a duplex, these homes offer both benefits and drawbacks. Carefully consider the pros and cons before making a decision, and remember that communication and cooperation are key to a harmonious living situation with your neighbors.