If you’re planning building works in London, you may need to serve a Party Wall Notice under the Party Wall etc. Act 1996. At Simple Survey, we provide clear, practical advice on whether your works are notifiable, how to prepare valid notices, and the steps to take to stay compliant. Our fixed-fee service ensures financial certainty while protecting your project from unnecessary delays.
Supporting Building Owners and Adjoining Owners in London
For Building Owners
If you are planning works such as an extension, loft conversion, basement excavation, or alterations to a shared wall, you must serve the correct Party Wall Notice. We prepare and serve notices on your behalf, handle any responses, and if needed, act as your Building Owner Surveyor.
For Adjoining Owners
If you’ve received a Party Wall Notice, you have the right to either consent or dissent. Dissenting does not stop your neighbour’s project—it simply triggers the protections of the Act and ensures an impartial surveyor is appointed. In most cases, the Building Owner pays your surveyor’s reasonable fees.
If No Notice Has Been Served
If your neighbour has already started work without serving a notice, we recommend speaking to them directly first. If the works are notifiable, we can step in to advise, help pause the works until the process is followed correctly, and if necessary, guide you through injunction options.
What Is the Party Wall etc. Act 1996?
The Act provides a legal framework for construction works that affect shared walls, boundary walls, or nearby structures. It requires Building Owners to serve notice before starting notifiable works and gives Adjoining Owners legal protection if disputes arise.
Key scenarios include:
- Building new walls on or near the boundary line
- Cutting into or altering an existing party wall
- Excavating near neighbouring foundations
- Removing chimney breasts attached to a party wall
What Is a Party Wall Award?
When a dispute arises (either through dissent or no response to a notice), surveyors are appointed to prepare a Party Wall Award. This legally binding document:
- Outlines how and when the works may proceed
- Details protective measures for the neighbour’s property
- Allocates costs and surveyor fees (usually to the Building Owner)
The Award ensures the works can continue lawfully while safeguarding the interests of all parties.
Why Choose Simple Survey in London?
- ✅ Affordable fixed fees — transparent pricing with no hidden costs
- ✅ Expert knowledge — RICS-qualified surveyors specialising in Party Wall matters
- ✅ Impartial advice — protecting both Building and Adjoining Owners
- ✅ Fast service — keeping your project moving without unnecessary delays
📩 Contact team@simplesurvey.co.uk, England and Wales’ most cost effective Party Wall Surveying team with Party Wall Notice fees from £25.00 and Party Wall Award fees capped at £325.00. We will not be beaten on price!