The Agreed Surveyor: The Money-Saving Option

Ever spoken to a Party Wall Surveyor but never heard the term Agreed Surveyor?
If so, you’re not alone — and you could be missing out on a route that saves you time, money, and stress.

Let’s break it down.


When Are Surveyors Appointed?

Your first step with a Party Wall Surveyor is confirming whether your planned works fall under the Party Wall etc. Act 1996.
If they do, your surveyor will:

  1. Serve Notice on your neighbour (Adjoining Owner)
  2. Ask you to sign an appointment letter naming them as your surveyor if a dispute arises

That appointment locks them into the project — and locks you into paying their fees.


What Happens After Notice is Served?

It depends entirely on your neighbour’s response:

Consent

Your neighbour is happy with the works and you can proceed without a Party Wall Award.

Dissent (Agrees to Use Your Surveyor)

A Party Wall Award is needed, but your neighbour is fine with using your chosen surveyor.

Dissent (Appoints Their Own Surveyor)

You must still have a Party Wall Award — but now there are two surveyors, meaning two sets of fees.


Where the Agreed Surveyor Fits In

The Act allows both parties to use the same surveyor — the Agreed Surveyor.
This is the simplest, cheapest, and often quickest route.


The Bottom Line

  • Don’t rush into appointing a surveyor
  • Ask about the Agreed Surveyor route
  • Choose someone who explains all your options, not just the ones that benefit them

For clear, impartial advice on your Party Wall options — including whether an Agreed Surveyor could save you hundreds — email team@simplesurvey.co.uk today.