Who Is a Party Wall Surveyor?
A party wall surveyor is a specialist professional appointed to manage disputes and oversee compliance with the Party Wall etc. Act 1996.
Responsibilities
- Assessing the proposed works
- Serving or advising on Party Wall Notices
- Preparing Party Wall Awards outlining how work will be carried out safely
- Protecting the interests of both building owners and neighbours
- Inspecting properties before, during, and after works
Impartiality and Duty
Surveyors must remain impartial and act fairly toward all parties, even if appointed by only one owner.
Qualifications
Most surveyors are qualified through professional bodies such as the RICS and have specific party wall experience.
When to Involve a Surveyor
Engaging a surveyor early prevents misunderstandings and helps ensure legal compliance.
Benefits of Professional Surveyors
They reduce risk, avoid disputes, and help projects progress smoothly and on time.
Summary
Party wall surveyors are key to navigating legal complexities and safeguarding neighbourly relations during construction.