At Graham Kinnear Property Consultant (grahamkinnear.com), we specialise in party wall matters throughout England and Wales namely those works which are covered by the Party Wall Etc Act 1996. If you’re planning a building or renovation project that involves a shared wall, boundary, or structure with a neighbouring property, understanding your responsibilities under the Party Wall Act 1996 is crucial. Engaging a party wall surveyor is essential for ensuring that your project complies with legal requirements, protects your property rights, and maintains good relations with your neighbours.
If you are planning a loft conversion, rear or side extension, removal of a chimney breast or even a new build dwelling then they are likely to need to comply with the Party Wall Etc Act 1996. Contact one of our experienced surveyors for free, no obligation, initial advice either by telephone or email.
If you’re planning to carry out building works that may affect a shared structure or boundary with your neighbour, you’ll likely need to hire a party wall surveyor. A party wall surveyor ensures that you comply with the Party Wall etc. Act 1996, protects your rights, and resolves any disputes with your neighbour. Here’s how to find a qualified party wall surveyor in the UK.
What Does a Party Wall Surveyor Do?
Before you start looking for a surveyor, it’s important to understand their role:
- Mediating Disputes: A party wall surveyor acts as an impartial mediator between you and your neighbour when there is a disagreement over party wall works.
- Creating a Party Wall Award: The surveyor produces a legally binding party wall award, outlining the terms under which the work can proceed.
- Inspecting Property: They carry out a schedule of condition to document the state of both properties before work begins to avoid disputes over future damage.
- Ensuring Compliance: Surveyors make sure that the proposed work meets the requirements of the Party Wall etc. Act 1996.
How to Find a Party Wall Surveyor in the UK
1. Get Recommendations from Trusted Sources
Word of mouth is a great way to find reliable party wall surveyors:
- Personal Recommendations: Ask friends, family, or colleagues who have had similar building projects for recommendations.
- Property Professionals: Architects, builders, or solicitors often have established relationships with surveyors and can provide trustworthy referrals.
- Neighbours: If your neighbour has already appointed a surveyor, consider asking them for their contact details.
2. Use Online Directories and Resources
Several online platforms help you find qualified party wall surveyors:
- RICS (Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors): Search for qualified surveyors on the RICS website. Members must meet strict professional standards, ensuring a high level of expertise. RICS Find a Surveyor
- Faculty of Party Wall Surveyors: This independent body specializes in party wall matters. Their directory can help you find experienced surveyors in your area.
- The Party Wall etc. Act 1996 Website: Some government resources also list accredited surveyors.
3. Check Qualifications and Experience
It’s essential to hire a surveyor with the right qualifications and experience:
- Chartered Surveyors: Look for surveyors who are members of recognized bodies like RICS or the Faculty of Party Wall Surveyors.
- Specialised in Party Wall Disputes: Ensure the surveyor has specific experience with party wall matters, as this requires expertise in both legal and technical aspects.
- Impartial: Surveyors must remain impartial, especially when resolving disputes, so make sure they have a reputation for fairness.
4. Get Multiple Quotes
Party wall surveyor fees can vary depending on the complexity of the work and the location. It’s a good idea to:
- Request Written Quotes: Ask for a detailed breakdown of fees to understand what you’re paying for, including inspections, reports, and meetings.
- Compare Fees: Get quotes from at least 2-3 surveyors to ensure you’re getting a fair price.
5. Look for Reviews and References
Before hiring a surveyor, consider checking reviews or asking for references. Some things to look for include:
- Responsiveness: How quickly does the surveyor respond to inquiries?
- Communication: Is the surveyor clear about the process and any potential issues?
- Previous Client Feedback: Has the surveyor successfully handled similar party wall matters?
6. Consider Using a Joint Surveyor
If both you and your neighbour are in agreement, you may opt to use a joint surveyor known as an Agreed Surveyor, which can save costs. A joint surveyor will act impartially for both parties, creating a party wall award that meets the needs of both sides. However, both parties must agree to this option beforehand.
7. Contact the Surveyor
Once you’ve shortlisted a surveyor, it’s time to make contact. When reaching out, you should:
- Discuss Your Needs: Explain the work you plan to carry out and ask whether the surveyor thinks the party wall notice is necessary.
- Ask About Availability: Ensure the surveyor is available to start work within your project timeline.
- Clarify the Process: A good surveyor will explain how they plan to proceed, including timelines and fees.
8. Ensure Clear Terms and Agreement
Once you’ve selected your party wall surveyor, ensure that you:
- Get a Written Agreement: Confirm the terms of the engagement, including fees, timelines, and responsibilities.
- Understand the Costs: Ask for a clear breakdown of costs so there are no surprises.
Conclusion
Hiring a qualified party wall surveyor is a vital step in ensuring that any construction work you carry out complies with the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 and avoids disputes with your neighbour. By following these steps—seeking recommendations, using professional directories, comparing fees, and ensuring proper qualifications—you can find the right surveyor to handle your party wall matters. If in doubt, always consult a professional to ensure your rights and property are protected.
Key Takeaways:
- Always check that your surveyor is RICS qualified or a member of the Faculty of Party Wall Surveyors.
- You can appoint a joint surveyor to save on costs if both parties agree.
- Get quotes and compare to find the best value for your project.
The Party Wall Process in 76 Seconds! from Graham Kinnear on Vimeo.
Our principal surveyor is a Chartered Building Engineer and Chartered Construction Manager who is also a Fellow of the Faculty of Party Wall Surveyors, Member of the Party Wall Academy and the Pyramus & Thisbe Society which exists to promote party wall excellence. As well as these industry qualifications, we have many years experience in this specialist field.
We cover the whole of England and Wales for Party Wall Matters and are therefore regularly engaged in projects in your area.
In order that we can provide you with the help you need please select which of the following two party wall scenarios apply:
I am wanting to undertake work which may invoke the Party Wall Act
OR
My neighbour is planning to undertake work which may invoke the Party Wall Act.