Basement and deep excavation projects are where party wall stops feeling like admin and starts feeling serious. That’s because the risks—movement, sequencing, engineering complexity—are higher. And higher risk naturally makes neighbours more cautious.
At Simple Survey, we handle this by doing the opposite of what causes trouble: we don’t rush, we don’t bluff, and we don’t use vague notices. We build a structured route from day one.
Why basements trigger stronger neighbour reactions
Neighbours don’t fear paperwork. They fear unknown outcomes. Basements can involve:
- deeper excavation
- longer programmes
- heavier plant
- more complex temporary works
- unknown ground conditions
Even if everything is engineered properly, the neighbour’s perception is: “This could affect my home.” If your communication is unclear, that fear grows.
The most common basement mistake we see
The biggest mistake isn’t “doing a basement.” It’s treating party wall like it’s the same as a simple extension.
Deep works require:
- clearer description of the method
- clearer sequencing expectations
- earlier planning of the statutory timeline
- a realistic view of neighbour response (consent may be less likely)
When homeowners don’t plan for that, they get stuck—builders ready, paperwork not ready.
How we keep basement party wall structured
Our approach is practical:
- we confirm which notices apply and serve them correctly
- we keep the explanation of the works clear and specific
- we plan for the likelihood of a formal route rather than hoping for instant consent
- we keep communication calm and factual
Basement projects benefit massively from clarity early—because confusion doesn’t just cause delay, it causes mistrust.
The “programme truth” we tell clients
If you’re doing a basement, you need to assume:
- neighbours may want the formal procedure
- responses may take longer
- the statutory timetable must be built into the programme
That’s not pessimism. It’s realism—and it protects your build.
Get Cost Saving Pro Advice Now
If you’re planning deep excavation or basement work and want party wall handled in a structured, no-drama way, get in touch with Simple Survey. We’ll map a compliant process that protects your timeline and keeps costs proportionate, starting with notices from £25 per adjoining ownership, and agreed surveyor administration typically £300, depending on complexity and owners.