When a party wall dispute arises, one of the first decisions is how to appoint surveyors. You can either jointly instruct one Agreed Surveyor or each appoint your own surveyor. Below is a practical comparison to help you choose the right route for your project and neighbour relationship.
Option 1: Appointing an Agreed Surveyor (one surveyor for both owners)
Why people choose this:
- Lower overall cost: One professional instead of two usually reduces fees; the Building Owner typically pays.
- Streamlined process: With a single point of contact, decisions and drafting the Award often happen faster.
- Impartial by duty: Party wall surveyors must act independently, even when appointed by both parties.
Potential drawbacks:
- Perception of bias: Even with impartiality, one surveyor can feel “too close” to one side, undermining trust.
- Fewer viewpoints: You lose the benefit of two professionals testing each other’s assumptions.
- No Third Surveyor safety net: With separate surveyors, the Act requires appointing a Third Surveyor to determine issues if the two disagree. With an Agreed Surveyor, that escalation route isn’t available.
Option 2: Each Party Appoints Their Own Surveyor
Why people choose this:
- Dedicated representation: Each owner has a professional focused squarely on their concerns and risk profile.
- Broader expertise and scrutiny: Two minds can be invaluable on complex builds or unusual site conditions.
- Confidence and transparency: Owners often feel more comfortable when “their” surveyor is at the table.
Potential drawbacks:
- Higher cost exposure: The Building Owner commonly covers both surveyors’ reasonable fees, which can add up if matters are protracted.
- Possibility of longer timelines: More stakeholders can mean more coordination—though most surveyors keep matters efficient.
- Disagreements to resolve: If surveyors can’t align, they may refer issues to the Third Surveyor—useful, but it can add time and cost.
How to Decide
Consider:
- Project complexity: Deep excavations, unusual structures, or tricky access arrangements may benefit from two surveyors.
- Budget and programme: If speed and cost containment are critical—and trust is high—an Agreed Surveyor can be attractive.
- Neighbour relations: Where confidence is low or communication is strained, separate surveyors can reduce anxiety and build credibility.
- Risk tolerance: Ask yourself how comfortable you are relying on a single viewpoint versus a “peer-reviewed” approach.
Practical Tips (Whichever Route You Choose)
- Start early: Engage a surveyor before notices go out and well before the planned start date.
- Get the paperwork right: Ensure valid notices, drawings, and method statements are in place.
- Keep dialogue open: Courteous, documented communication saves time and cost.
Want a neutral view on the best route for your project?
Email team@simplesurvey.co.uk. As the lowest-cost party wall surveyors across England & Wales, Simple Survey gives clear, impartial advice—whether you’re considering an Agreed Surveyor or separate appointments—and delivers compliant Notices and efficient Party Wall Awards.