Received a Party Wall Notice? If so you may be unsure what it means, what your rights are, and what you should do next. This is a very common situation for homeowners, landlords and property owners across the UK — particularly where building works involve extensions, loft conversions, basement works or structural alterations.
The good news is that the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 exists to protect you. However, how you respond to a Party Wall Notice is crucial, and appointing the right Party Wall Surveyor can make a significant difference to the outcome.
What Is a Party Wall Notice?
A Party Wall Notice is a formal legal notice served by a neighbour (known as the Building Owner) when they intend to carry out works that may affect a shared wall, boundary or nearby structure. Common works include:
- Loft conversions involving party walls
- Rear or side extensions
- Excavations near your property
- Structural alterations to shared walls
- Works to boundary walls or party fence walls
Once you receive a Party Wall Notice, you typically have 14 days to respond.
Received a Party Wall notice? What Are Your Options ?
As the Adjoining Owner, you have three main options:
- Consent to the works
- Consent to the works subject to a pre commencement inspection of your property being undertaken
- Dissent and appoint your own Party Wall Surveyor
- Agree to a single Agreed Surveyor acting for both parties
While consenting may seem like the easiest route, it often leaves you with less protection if damage occurs. Agreeing to a single surveyor can work in some cases, but it is not always appropriate — particularly where works are complex or high-risk.
For most adjoining owners, the safest and most balanced option is to appoint an independent Party Wall Surveyor to act solely in your interests.
Received a party wall notice? Why Appoint Your Own Party Wall Surveyor?
Appointing your own surveyor ensures that your property, rights and position are properly protected throughout the process.
A Party Wall Surveyor acting for you will:
- Review the proposed works in detail
- Assess the risk to your property
- Ensure the works comply with the Party Wall etc. Act 1996
- Arrange a detailed Schedule of Condition of your property
- Agree a robust Party Wall Award with appropriate safeguards
- Deal with access arrangements, working hours and protective measures
- Resolve issues quickly if damage or disputes arise
Importantly, in most cases the Building Owner pays the reasonable costs of the Adjoining Owner’s surveyor, meaning professional protection comes at no direct cost to you.
The Importance of a Schedule of Condition
One of the most critical protections for an adjoining owner is a Schedule of Condition. This is a detailed photographic and written record of your property’s condition before works begin.
Without a Schedule of Condition, it can be difficult — or impossible — to prove whether damage was caused by the works. A properly prepared Schedule protects both parties and helps prevent disputes later.
Why Choose Us as Your Party Wall Surveyor?
At Graham Kinnear Property Consultants (grahamkinnear.com) We specialise in acting for adjoining owners across England and Wales who have received Party Wall Notices. Our approach is clear, practical and focused on protecting your interests without unnecessary delay or conflict.
When you appoint us, you benefit from:
- Fully qualified and experienced Party Wall Surveyors
- Extensive experience dealing with residential, commercial and tenanted properties
- Clear, plain-English advice throughout the process
- Nationwide coverage
- Prompt handling of Notices and Awards
- Detailed Schedules of Condition carried out to a professional standard
- A pragmatic approach designed to avoid disputes where possible
We regularly act where adjoining owners feel pressured to consent or are unsure of their rights. Our role is to ensure you are treated fairly and that the works proceed safely and lawfully.
What Happens Next?
If you have received a Party Wall Notice, time is important. Once appointed, we can:
- Review the Notice and proposed works
- Advise you on the best response
- Formally dissent on your behalf (if appropriate)
- Liaise with the Building Owner’s surveyor
- Agree a Party Wall Award that protects your property
The process does not need to be stressful — with the right surveyor, it can be straightforward and well managed.
Speak to a Party Wall Surveyor Today
If you have received a Party Wall Notice and would like independent professional advice, we are here to help. An early conversation can prevent problems, protect your property and give you peace of mind.
Contact us today or call us on 01843 583000 to discuss your situation and find out how we can act as your Party Wall Surveyor.
We are members of the Faculty Of Party Wall Surveyors, The Pyramus & Thisbe Society, The Royal institution of Chartered Surveyors, The Chartered institute of Building and the Chartered Association of Building Engineers.
