If your property shares a wall with a neighbouring building, known as a party wall, and you are planning construction work, you may need to involve a party wall surveyor. This can add paperwork and increase your overall building costs. But what does a party wall surveyor actually charge? What influences the price? And who is responsible for covering the cost? Here is a clear guide.
What Does a Party Wall Surveyor Charge?
Surveyors usually charge by the hour, with rates commonly ranging from £90 to £450 depending on location and complexity.
The typical cost for a party wall agreement is around £1,000. For simpler projects such as a loft conversion, you might pay around £900 if only one surveyor is required. For more complex work like basement construction, costs could rise to £6,000 or more, especially if more than one surveyor is involved.
To get an accurate quote, it is best to contact a local surveyor directly.
What Can Influence the Cost?
Several factors can affect how much you pay, including:
- Time required: More complicated cases take longer, such as agreements involving several flats.
- Number of surveyors: If both you and your neighbour appoint separate surveyors, the cost will be higher. Ideally, both parties agree to use just one.
- Property size and location: Larger homes or those in certain regions, such as London, often come with higher fees.
What Is a Party Wall?
A party wall is a wall shared by two or more adjoining properties. In terraced or semi detached houses, this is the dividing wall between homes. It can also include a wall that sits entirely on one property if it provides structural support to the neighbouring building. Even a garden wall that straddles a boundary may count. Wooden fences are not considered party walls.
When Do You Need a Party Wall Surveyor?
You may need a party wall surveyor if you or your neighbour is planning building work that could affect the shared wall. Common examples include:
- Loft conversions
- Adding a damp proof course
- Laying foundations for an extension or basement
What Is a Party Wall Award?
The surveyor will prepare a Party Wall Award, sometimes called an agreement. This sets out the responsibilities of each party, details about how and when work can be carried out, and access arrangements. It also includes a schedule of condition, which is a written and photographic record of the neighbouring property before any work begins. This is helpful in case of later disputes over possible damage.
Who Pays for the Surveyor?
If you are carrying out work that affects the party wall, you must give written notice to your neighbour at least two months before the start date. If they agree in writing and both of you accept the terms, a formal agreement may not be required. Even so, it is wise to create a schedule of condition together or with the help of a surveyor.
If no agreement is reached, a surveyor will need to be appointed. Usually, the person initiating the building work pays all related fees.
Using One or Two Surveyors
There are two options:
- Appoint one impartial surveyor to act for both parties
- Each party appoints their own surveyor
If both parties use separate surveyors, expect the cost to increase. Here are some average price ranges:
| Project Type | One Surveyor | Two Surveyors |
|---|---|---|
| Loft Conversion | £900 to £1,200 | £1,800 to £2,400 |
| Extension | £1,200 to £1,500 | £2,400 to £3,000 |
| Basement | £1,800 to £2,700 | £3,600 to £5,400 |
Figures from Checkatrade
If two surveyors cannot agree, a third independent surveyor may be brought in, which will increase the cost further.
What About Repairs?
If the work relates to fixing damage or addressing a fault, the cost may be shared. How much each owner pays will depend on how much they use the structure and who is responsible for the issue. The party wall surveyor will make the final decision on how fees should be split.
How to Keep Costs Down
To avoid unnecessary expense, try to maintain a good relationship with your neighbour. Speak with them before sending a formal notice. Share your plans, drawings and builder contact details so they can raise any questions.
In many cases, this simple step can avoid conflict, help you agree to use just one surveyor or even remove the need for one altogether. A friendly conversation upfront could save you a significant amount of money later.
Simple Survey
We’ve broken the mould when it comes to Party Wall Surveyor fees. Our fixed costs are the cheapest in the market. Get in touch with us now. We will not be beaten on price.