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What to Expect from Professional Party Wall Surveying Services

February 4, 2025 by
Lewis Calvert
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Undertaking construction work that impacts a shared wall, boundary, or structure can be challenging, especially when it involves your neighbours. Professional party wall surveying services help simplify this process, ensuring compliance with the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 and safeguarding the interests of all involved parties. Whether you're planning a loft conversion, an extension, or basement excavation, understanding what to expect from professional party wall surveyors is essential. At Simmons Taylor Hall, we’ll explore what party wall surveying services include, why they’re important, and how they benefit homeowners and property developers alike.

What is a Party Wall Surveyor?

A party wall surveyor is an expert in the Party Wall etc. Act 1996, which governs construction work affecting shared walls or boundaries. They act impartially to ensure that all legal obligations are met and disputes are resolved fairly. This impartiality means they prioritise compliance and fairness, protecting both you and your neighbours.

Party wall surveyors typically:

●      Serve party wall notices.

●      Prepare and agree party wall awards (legal agreements).

●      Document the condition of properties before construction.

●      Resolve disputes that may arise between neighbouring parties.

Professional surveyors ensure your project progresses smoothly without unnecessary delays or costly legal challenges.

Why Are Party Wall Surveying Services Necessary?

Many construction projects, particularly in urban areas with terraced or semi-detached properties, require party wall agreements. Failing to adhere to the Party Wall Act can lead to disputes, legal action, or even the suspension of your project.

Examples of work that might need a party wall agreement include:

●      Building an extension.

●      Converting a loft.

●      Excavating for a basement.

●      Removing a chimney breast.

By hiring professional party wall surveying services, you ensure:

●      Legal compliance with the Party Wall Act.

●      Documentation that protects your property and interests.

●      Avoidance of disputes that can strain neighbourly relationships.

Key Steps in Professional Party Wall Surveying Services

Here is what you can expect when you hire a professional party wall surveyor:

1. Initial Consultation and Advice

The process begins with an initial consultation. During this stage, the surveyor assesses your planned works and advises whether they fall under the Party Wall Act. They will explain your obligations and outline the steps involved in serving a party wall notice to your neighbours.

2. Serving Party Wall Notices

A key responsibility of the surveyor is preparing and serving party wall notices to your neighbours. This notice informs adjoining property owners about your proposed works and allows them to:

●      Consent to the works.

●      Request modifications to protect their property.

●      Appoint their own surveyor if they have concerns.

It’s important that the notice is clear, accurate, and served within the required timeframe to avoid delays.

3. Schedule of Condition Reports

Before any construction begins, the surveyor typically prepares a schedule of condition report. This document records the current state of your neighbour’s property with photographs and detailed notes. This step is crucial for avoiding disputes about property damage during or after construction.

4. Party Wall Awards

If your neighbour consents to the works, the surveyor will draft a party wall award. This legal document outlines:

●      The scope and timeline of the proposed works.

●      Any measures needed to protect the adjoining property.

●      How disputes will be resolved if they arise.

Both you and your neighbour must agree to the award before construction can proceed.

5. Dispute Resolution

If your neighbour does not consent to the works or raises concerns, the surveyor will mediate to resolve the dispute. This may involve appointing an additional surveyor to act as the agreed-upon third party. Professional surveyors are skilled at handling these situations efficiently to minimise delays.

6. Ongoing Monitoring (if required)

For complex projects, a surveyor may be involved in monitoring the construction to ensure compliance with the party wall agreement. This step provides additional reassurance for both parties that the work is being carried out as agreed.

Benefits of Hiring a Professional Party Wall Surveyor

Working with a qualified and experienced surveyor offers several benefits:

1. Legal Compliance

Navigating the Party Wall Act on your own can be tricky. A professional surveyor ensures all notices, agreements, and documentation meet legal requirements, reducing the risk of costly mistakes.

2. Impartiality

Surveyors are required to act impartially, even if you are the one hiring them. This impartiality fosters trust between you and your neighbours, making the process smoother and less adversarial.

3. Dispute Avoidance and Resolution

An experienced surveyor knows how to anticipate and address common issues, helping to prevent disputes before they escalate. If a disagreement does arise, their expertise ensures it’s resolved efficiently and fairly.

4. Time and Cost Savings

Although hiring a surveyor is an added cost, it can save you money in the long run by preventing delays, legal challenges, and disputes. They streamline the process, allowing your project to proceed without unnecessary interruptions.

5. Neighbourly Relations

Construction projects can be a source of tension between neighbours. A professional surveyor acts as a neutral third party, helping to maintain positive relationships while protecting everyone’s interests.

What to Look for in a Party Wall Surveyor

When choosing a surveyor, consider the following:

1. Qualifications and Accreditation

Look for surveyors who are members of professional organisations such as the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) or the Faculty of Party Wall Surveyors (FPWS). These accreditations indicate they adhere to high professional standards.

2. Experience

Choose a surveyor with a proven track record in handling similar projects. Their experience will ensure they can navigate the complexities of your case effectively.

3. Local Knowledge

Hiring a surveyor familiar with your area can be advantageous. They’ll understand local property types and potential challenges unique to your location.

4. Clear Communication

A good surveyor should explain the process in simple terms and keep you informed at every stage. Clear communication is key to a smooth experience.

5. Transparent Pricing

Request a detailed quote upfront and ensure there are no hidden fees. Compare quotes from multiple surveyors to find one that offers good value without compromising on quality.

Professional party wall surveying services play a vital role in ensuring your construction project runs smoothly while protecting your property and neighbourly relationships. From serving notices to resolving disputes, experienced surveyors handle the complexities of the Party Wall Act so you can focus on your project with confidence.

At Simmons Taylor Hall, we specialise in providing expert party wall surveying services tailored to your needs. Our team combines local expertise with a commitment to delivering clear, impartial advice. Contact us today for a consultation, and let us help you navigate the party wall process with ease.

 

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