When a party wall dispute arises, one of the first decisions is how to appoint surveyors. You can either jointly instruct one Agreed Surveyor or each appoint your own surveyor. Below is a practical comparison to help you choose the right route for your project and neighbour relationship.
Option 1: Appointing an Agreed Surveyor (one surveyor for both owners)
Why people choose this:
- Lower overall cost: One professional instead of two usually reduces fees; the Building Owner typically pays.
- Streamlined process: With a single point of contact, decisions and drafting the Award often happen faster.
- Impartial by duty: Party wall surveyors must act independently, even when appointed by both parties.
Potential drawbacks:
- Perception of bias: Even with impartiality, one surveyor can feel “too close” to one side, undermining trust.
- Fewer viewpoints: You lose the benefit of two professionals testing each other’s assumptions.
- No Third Surveyor safety net: With separate surveyors, the Act requires appointing a Third Surveyor to determine issues if the two disagree. With an Agreed Surveyor, that escalation route isn’t available.
Option 2: Each Party Appoints Their Own Surveyor
Why people choose this:
- Dedicated representation: Each owner has a professional focused squarely on their concerns and risk profile.
- Broader expertise and scrutiny: Two minds can be invaluable on complex builds or unusual site conditions.
- Confidence and transparency: Owners often feel more comfortable when “their” surveyor is at the table.
Potential drawbacks:
- Higher cost exposure: The Building Owner commonly covers both surveyors’ reasonable fees, which can add up if matters are protracted.
- Possibility of longer timelines: More stakeholders can mean more coordination—though most surveyors keep matters efficient.
- Disagreements to resolve: If surveyors can’t align, they may refer issues to the Third Surveyor—useful, but it can add time and cost.
How to Decide
Consider:
- Project complexity: Deep excavations, unusual structures, or tricky access arrangements may benefit from two surveyors.
- Budget and programme: If speed and cost containment are critical—and trust is high—an Agreed Surveyor can be attractive.
- Neighbour relations: Where confidence is low or communication is strained, separate surveyors can reduce anxiety and build credibility.
- Risk tolerance: Ask yourself how comfortable you are relying on a single viewpoint versus a “peer-reviewed” approach.
Practical Tips (Whichever Route You Choose)
- Start early: Engage a surveyor before notices go out and well before the planned start date.
- Get the paperwork right: Ensure valid notices, drawings, and method statements are in place.
- Keep dialogue open: Courteous, documented communication saves time and cost.
FAQS
Q1. What is an agreed surveyor in the Party Wall process?
An agreed surveyor is a single surveyor appointed by both parties to act impartially and manage the party wall process.
Q2. What are separate surveyors?
Separate surveyors means each party appoints their own surveyor, who then work together to resolve the matter.
Q3. Is an agreed surveyor cheaper than separate surveyors?
Yes. Using one agreed surveyor is usually more cost-effective than appointing two separate surveyors.
Q4. When should you choose separate surveyors?
Separate surveyors are often preferred when there is disagreement or lack of trust between neighbours.
Q5. What happens if two surveyors cannot agree?
If the two surveyors cannot agree, a third surveyor is appointed to make a final decision.
Want a neutral view on the best route for your project?
Email team@simplesurvey.co.uk. As the lowest-cost party wall surveyors across England & Wales, Simple Survey gives clear, impartial advice—whether you’re considering an Agreed Surveyor or separate appointments—and delivers compliant Notices and efficient Party Wall Awards.