Instruct as soon as you know the project involves party wall work, ideally before planning applications. Choose a chartered building surveyor with party wall experience who can act independently under the statutory appointment. The surveyor reviews the works, prepares and serves the notices and manages responses; if an adjoining owner dissents, a party wall award is prepared.
Appointing the right party wall surveyor
If your work triggers the Party Wall Act 1996, choosing the right surveyor and instructing them promptly makes the difference between a smooth process and delays. Our London party wall surveyors act for building and adjoining owners.
When to instruct
Instruct as soon as you know the project involves party wall work. Ideally before planning applications so the process runs in parallel with pre-construction activities.
Choosing a surveyor
Look for a chartered building surveyor with party wall experience, ideally a Pyramus and Thisbe Club member. Choose a suitably qualified surveyor who can act independently under the statutory appointment, with any conflicts disclosed and properly managed. If a firm also offers works, the professional and works scopes should be separately appointed, with no obligation to use that firm for delivery.
The instruction process
The surveyor reviews works, advises on notices, prepares and serves them, and manages responses. If an adjoining owner dissents, they prepare a party wall award.
What to expect from the award
The award sets out the works, rights, responsibilities, a schedule of condition of the adjoining property, working hours, access and provision for making good damage.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need my own surveyor?
Both parties can agree a single surveyor, or each appoint their own. A single agreed surveyor is often quicker for straightforward matters.
How much does it cost?
Typically 1,000 to 2,000 pounds for one adjoining owner. The building owner normally pays all reasonable fees.
How long does the process take?
If the neighbour consents, days. If a dispute arises, four to eight weeks. Start early.
Can my architect act as party wall surveyor?
Technically yes if qualified, but an independent surveyor is better to avoid perceived conflict of interest.
Savas Bulduk
BSc (Hons) MRICS, Director & Chartered Building Surveyor.
Writes on Building surveying, Fire safety and facade, External wall systems, Technical due diligence, Contract administration. See the full team profile.