Party wall problems usually aren’t caused by the bricks. They’re caused by uncertainty—especially about what the adjoining owner can request, refuse, or delay.
At Simple Survey, we believe the fastest route is the clearest route. So we explain the adjoining owner’s position in plain English, early, and without drama.
What an adjoining owner typically wants
Most neighbours want three things:
- to understand what’s happening
- to feel their property isn’t being treated casually
- to know the process has guardrails
If your notice is vague or late, they assume the worst. If it’s clear and timely, they’re far more likely to cooperate.
What they can and can’t do (the practical version)
Adjoining owners generally can:
- consent in writing
- dissent (which moves the matter into the formal procedure)
- ask questions, request clarification, and seek professional input
They generally cannot:
- stop lawful works indefinitely simply by “not liking” them
- replace the statutory process with informal demands
- rewrite your project through endless negotiation
The Act exists to balance rights: your right to improve your property, and their right to protection through a defined procedure.
Why “silence” becomes a flashpoint
Homeowners often assume no reply equals consent. In practice, silence creates tension because:
- builders want a start date
- neighbours feel ignored
- the legal process still needs a defined next step
This is why we advise clients not to “hope for silence.” We plan for real outcomes, not best-case optimism.
How we reduce neighbour resistance
A big part of our service is pre-empting fear. We do that by:
- writing notices that describe the works clearly
- keeping communication factual and calm
- setting expectations about timelines and next steps
- avoiding legal threats and “builder-speak” letters
When neighbours understand the process, they’re less likely to seek unnecessary escalation.
The biggest adjoining owner misconception
Many adjoining owners think: “If I dissent, I can control the build.” That’s not usually how it plays out. Dissent typically means: the formal route applies, and a clear process is used to document the works.
When handled properly, dissent doesn’t automatically mean delay. Delay usually comes from poor paperwork, missing owners, and slow responses—not from the neighbour exercising their rights.
Get Cost Saving Pro Advice Now
If you’re dealing with a cautious neighbour—or you want to serve notices in a way that makes consent more likely—get in touch with Simple Survey. We’re built for clear, low-cost, no-drama party wall support, with notices from £25 per adjoining ownership and agreed surveyor administration typically £300, depending on complexity and owners.