Many adjoining owners first learn about planned works when a party wall notice arrives in the post, or when letters are sent suggesting they should immediately dissent and appoint a surveyor.
However, dissenting isn’t always necessary. Whether you need a surveyor depends on the type and scale of the works being carried out. At Simple Survey, we’re happy to offer free advice so you can make an informed decision before appointing anyone.
Responding to a Notice
Once you receive a notice, you have 14 days to reply. If no response is given, the building owner can issue a 10-day follow-up notice.
If you still don’t respond, the Act allows a surveyor to be appointed on your behalf so the process can move forward.
⚠️ Important: Once a surveyor has been appointed, they cannot be removed. If two surveyors are appointed (one for each party), they will first select a Third Surveyor. The Third Surveyor will only be involved if the first two surveyors cannot agree — this is rare.
What a Party Wall Award Includes
If a surveyor is appointed, they will produce a Party Wall Award (a legally binding document) which:
- Confirms the parts of the work that fall under the Act
- Grants permission for the works, subject to conditions
- Sets out requirements such as:
- Agreed working hours
- Dust and noise control
- Vibration limits
- Temporary access rights
- Any required security deposits
The Role of the Surveyor
It’s important to understand that surveyors do not manage planning or design — their role is to administer the Party Wall Act and resolve disputes fairly.
Usually, the building owner pays the surveyors’ fees, including those of the adjoining owner’s surveyor (if appointed). If there is any disagreement about fees, the matter can be referred to the Third Surveyor for a final decision.
In most cases, appointing a single Agreed Surveyor (acting for both parties) is the simplest and most cost-effective approach.
✅ For clear advice on whether you need a party wall surveyor, contact the team at Simple Survey. We’ll help you understand your options and keep the process straightforward.