Hiring a party wall surveyor in London is often a necessary step when your building project affects a shared wall or boundary. While it protects your rights and ensures compliance with the Party Wall etc. Act 1996.
What Does a Party Wall Surveyor Do?
A party wall surveyor is a professional who ensures building works that affect shared walls comply with the Party Wall Act. In London, their role typically includes:
| Responsibility | What It Involves |
| Serving notices | Issuing legally valid notices to neighbours before work starts |
| Preparing awards | Creating a Party Wall Award to set out terms and responsibilities |
| Resolving disputes | Mediating between neighbours and protecting both parties’ rights |
| Legal Compliance | Hiring a surveyor ensures legal compliance and prevents costly disputes. |
Factors That Affect Surveyor Fees
Several key factors influence the final cost:
- Project complexity – Loft conversions are cheaper than basements.
- Location – Central London typically commands higher fees than outer boroughs.
- Experience level – Senior surveyors may charge more per hour but complete work faster.
- Neighbour relations – Disputes increase costs by requiring multiple surveyors.
- Construction type – Extensions, new builds, and combined projects cost more than single alterations.
Your Rights and Responsibilities
- Legal duty: You must serve notice before work begins.
- Neighbour rights: Neighbours can consent or dissent within 14 days.
- Who pays? Usually, the building owner covers surveyor costs.
- Dispute resolution: If neighbours object, both sides appoint surveyors (or agree on one).
Failing to comply with the Party Wall Act can result in legal disputes, delays, and higher costs.
Tips for Reducing Expenses
- Choose a single agreed surveyor where possible
- Maintain open communication with neighbours
- Use standard templates for notices
- Avoid unnecessary disputes
- Research and compare borough-specific rates
Conclusion
Choosing an experienced, cost-effective surveyor and keeping communication open with neighbours can help keep expenses under control. Above all, compliance with the Party Wall Act protects your project, your property, and your neighbourly relations.
Who pays for the surveyor?
The building owner (the one doing the work) usually covers all costs.
Do I always need two surveyors?
No—if both parties agree, one impartial surveyor can act for both.
How can I reduce costs?
Use an agreed surveyor, avoid disputes, and compare rates across London boroughs.
What happens if I don’t comply with the Act?
You risk legal action, project delays, and paying extra fees.
Affordable Party Wall Surveying Across England & Wales
At Simple Survey, we’ve redefined how much you should expect to pay for Party Wall services. By cutting out unnecessary costs and streamlining the process, we’re proud to offer the most competitive fees in England & Wales.
Looking for expert advice without breaking the bank? Contact our team today at team@simplesurvey.co.uk – discover why we’re the cheapest Party Wall Surveyors in England & Wales.