For most Building Owners, the ideal outcome after serving Party Wall Notices is a written consent—you still gain the Act’s benefits (like statutory access) without paying for surveyors to make an Award. In practice, though, consents are uncommon (anecdotally ~1 in 5). Here’s why—and how to improve your chances.
Why neighbours hesitate
It’s rarely about money or “being difficult.” Most Adjoining Owners feel a general unease about:
- Risk of damage and how it will be handled,
- Disruption to daily life (noise, dust, access), and
- Confusion between planning and party wall procedures (they’re separate).
Crucially, damage must be made good or compensated under the Act—whether they consent or dissent. Many neighbours don’t realise this, so they default to dissent for peace of mind.
What you can do—before you serve notice
- Talk first, serve second: Share a brief, friendly summary of what you’re doing, timings, and how the Act protects both sides.
- De-mystify the process: Leave a copy of the Government Explanatory Booklet or a one-page explainer that distinguishes planning from party wall.
- Name the benefits: Explain that consent keeps things simpler and quicker—without reducing their rights.
Offer a smarter path: conditional consent
Consents can be conditional. The most persuasive offer:
- Clear contact & programme: who to call on site, indicative phasing, and typical working hours.
- Written assurance (restating the Act): damage will be made good or compensated and reasonable access will be managed with notice and protection.
Reassure them about their rights
Consenting does not waive their protection. If a specific dispute arises later (e.g., damage or method), they can still appoint a surveyor and the matter can proceed to an Award for that issue.
Practical checklist for Building Owners
- Speak to neighbours early; avoid the notice being their first contact.
- Share simple visuals (plan/section) and a short timeline.
- Keep planning and party wall distinct in your explanations.
- Put it in writing: a short covering letter with the notice that restates make-good/compensation and later-dispute rights.
Want a consent-focused notice pack and Expert Party Wall Advice?
Email team@simplesurvey.co.uk—Simple Survey are the lowest-cost party wall surveyors across England & Wales. We’ll draft neighbour-friendly notices and keep your project compliant—without unnecessary friction.