The Party Wall etc. Act 1996 defines a surveyor under Section 20 as an impartial individual appointed to resolve disputes arising under the Act. However, the law does not specify that this surveyor must hold any particular professional qualification, nor does it provide detailed guidance on how to select one.
Because of this lack of statutory qualification requirements, it is essential for anyone involved—whether as a building owner planning construction or as an adjoining property owner—to appoint a surveyor who can competently protect their interests and the condition of their property before, during, and after any work covered by the Act.
How to Choose a Suitable Surveyor
Since the role requires specialised knowledge, appointing a surveyor who is a member of one or both of these organisations is advisable. It is worth noting that not all RICS members have expertise in party wall matters, so checking experience is important. Both organisations provide online directories to verify a surveyor’s credentials.
Important Skills and Knowledge Beyond Membership
While knowledge of the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 is fundamental, effective surveyors also need a solid grasp of:
- Building design and construction techniques
- Methods of resolving disputes
Coordinating the Process
Party Wall Surveyors regularly engage with a variety of professionals, including fellow surveyors, architects, structural engineers, contractors, and adjoining owners. A surveyor who understands construction details and design concepts can help streamline the process and minimise delays and additional costs.
Experience or qualifications in project management are valuable since the surveyor often oversees coordination between different parties during the party wall procedure.
The Importance of Personal Skills
Beyond technical qualifications, effective communication skills and a professional, cooperative attitude are vital. A successful Party Wall Surveyor can work collaboratively with all parties involved, helping to facilitate constructive discussions and smooth progress.
Since the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 is intended to enable construction while protecting rights, a surveyor’s approach should focus on positive outcomes and dispute avoidance.
Protecting Properties and Mitigating Risk
Notifiable works under the Act can pose risks to neighbouring properties. The role of a qualified Party Wall Surveyor includes applying the legislation to reduce these risks while allowing the planned work to proceed.
This may involve recommending amendments to plans before work begins to ensure adjoining properties remain protected and legal requirements are met.
Final Advice
It is important to select a Party Wall Surveyor with relevant construction knowledge and appropriate qualifications. More complex projects may require coordination with architects and engineers, so experience in managing such collaborations is a key advantage.
Taking the Next Step
Engaging in an initial conversation with a potential surveyor can help assess their suitability, working style, and how well they align with the project’s timeline and requirements.
Selecting the right Party Wall Surveyor ensures that the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 is correctly implemented and that your interests and property are effectively safeguarded throughout the process.