Our Services Include
If you're planning building works near or on a shared wall, boundary, or close to neighbouring structures, you may be required to comply with the Party Wall etc. Act 1996. Our experienced team provides clear, impartial advice and full professional support for both Building Owners and Adjoining Owners.
For Building Owners
● Advice on whether the Act applies to your project
● Drafting and serving Party Wall Notices
● Preparing and agreeing Party Wall Awards
● Preparing Schedules of Condition for neighbouring properties
● Resolving disputes and ensuring legal compliance before works begin
For Adjoining Owners
● Reviewing notices and advising on your rights
● Representing your interests and ensuring your property is protected
● Negotiating the terms of the Party Wall Award
● Inspecting the condition of your property before and after works
● Securing compensation for any damage caused by notifiable works
Agreed Surveyor Role
Where both parties agree, we can act as the Agreed Surveyor, helping to keep the process streamlined, impartial, and cost-effective.
Why Choose Us?
● RICS-accredited surveyors with deep technical knowledge
● Extensive experience across residential and commercial schemes
● Clear, jargon-free advice and responsive service
● Proven track record resolving complex and high-risk cases
● Fully insured and legally compliant
FAQ's
Common Frequently Asked Questions for Party Wall
What is the Party Wall etc. Act 1996?
The Act provides a legal framework for preventing and resolving disputes in relation to:
● Work on party walls (shared walls between buildings)
● Construction on the boundary line between two properties
● Excavations within 3 or 6 metres of a neighbouring structure
It applies to both residential and commercial properties and requires proper notice, consent, or resolution through a Party Wall Award before certain works can begin.
Is the Surveyor on My Side?
Not exactly — even if one party appoints (and pays for) the surveyor, under the law, a Party Wall Surveyor must remain impartial. Their duty is to the Act itself, not to either party. If both owners agree, a single ‘Agreed Surveyor’ can be appointed to act fairly for both sides.
Who pays the party wall surveyor fees?
The building owner proposing the work is, under normal circumstances, responsible for the reasonable costs of the adjoining owner which includes their party wall surveyor fees and any other reasonable costs.
Do I Need a Party Wall Surveyor?
You may need one if:
● You’re carrying out work that involves shared walls, boundaries, or deep excavations.
● Your neighbour is doing such work and you’ve received a Party Wall Notice.
What are the common Projects That May Require a Party Wall Surveyor?
● Rear extensions and loft conversions
● Basement excavations and underpinning
● Chimney breast removals
● New builds on or near boundary lines
● Demolition of adjacent structures
What if There’s a Dispute?
If the parties can’t agree or if damage is claimed, the surveyor(s) resolve it by issuing a binding Party Wall Award. This protects both sides by clearly stating:
● What work is allowed
● When and how it can be done
● What protections are needed
● Who is liable for any damage
What do party wall surveyors do?
● A Party Wall Surveyor helps manage and resolve issues between neighbours when building works affect a shared wall, boundary, or nearby foundations.
● They ensure the work complies with the Party Wall etc. Act 1996, protect both properties, and prepare a legal agreement (called a Party Wall Award) if needed.
● This document is binding on both parties unless it is successfully appealed in the County Court within 14 days of being served.
● The Award will have copies of the drawings, a record of the condition of the adjoining property in case there is a claim of damage and it also sets out the rights and obligations of the owners.
● An Award can determine the right, time and manner of executing the work and any other matters arising. If damage is caused during or after the work, a party wall surveyor can determine if the damage has resulted from the works and assess an amount of compensation if the owners cannot agree an alternative remedy.