A Party Wall Award often gets treated like a worst-case outcome. We don’t see it that way.
At Simple Survey, we treat an award as a practical project document. It sets out what can happen, how it will happen, and what the rules are—so both sides have certainty and your build can proceed without constant friction.
When does an award come into play?
Awards are linked to the Act’s dispute procedure. And “dispute” doesn’t have to mean an argument. It can simply mean a neighbour hasn’t provided written consent, doesn’t respond, or wants the process formalised.
In many real builds, neighbours aren’t being difficult—they’re being cautious. An award gives them a framework to rely on, and it gives you clarity about the route forward.
What an award does in plain English
A good award answers the questions that stall projects:
- What works are permitted under the Act?
- When can they be carried out?
- What are the working rules around how the works are done?
- What happens if something needs to change on site?
In short, an award converts uncertainty into a written framework. That’s why, despite sounding like “extra paperwork,” it often reduces delays and misunderstandings.
Why awards can save money (even though they sound like an added step)
Uncertainty is expensive. Builders don’t like ambiguity. Neighbours don’t like not knowing what’s happening. And homeowners don’t like paying for downtime.
When the rules are set out clearly, questions reduce. Communication becomes simpler. And the project is less likely to drift into prolonged back-and-forth.
The projects that commonly need awards
Awards often come up with:
- structural work to shared walls
- foundations and excavation for rear/side extensions
- boundary work where consent isn’t immediate
The key point: it’s not about the label of the project. It’s about the risk profile and neighbour comfort.
Our approach at Simple Survey
We focus on clarity and proportion. We keep the process calm, structured, and aligned with the Act—without adding unnecessary drama or inflated fees.
Get Cost Saving Pro Advice Now
If you’re facing an award—or you suspect your neighbour won’t simply consent—get in touch with Simple Survey. We’ll guide you through the simplest compliant route, with agreed surveyor administration typically £300, depending on complexity and owners.