Party wall surveyor fees can often be confusing and worrying, but they’re actually governed by some clear principles in the Party Wall etcetera Act 1996.
First, who pays?
In almost all cases, the building owner, who is the person doing the works, pays the reasonable fees of:
- Their own party wall surveyor, known as the building owner’s surveyor
- The adjoining owner’s surveyor
- Any agreed surveyor, who will be acting for both owners.
This follows the logic that the adjoining owner shouldn’t be out of pocket, for protecting their property against work they didn’t ask for.
Second, what does “reasonable” mean?
The Act says only reasonable costs are payable. In practice, that usually covers:
- Reviewing drawings and engineering details
- Serving or checking party wall notices
- Communications with owners and other professionals
- Drafting, negotiating and serving the party wall award
- Any necessary inspections prior to the works commencing or post work in dealing with damage
Surveyors commonly charge either:
- A fixed fee, which is more common for the building owner’s surveyors or agreed surveyors, or
- An hourly rate with a time-based fee, which is more common for an adjoining owner’s surveyor
Complex schemes such as basements, deep excavations or significant structural changes, will result in higher fees, when compared to simple lofts or small extensions, as the overall surveyor time spent will be towards the upper end of the spectrum.
Third, can fees be challenged?
Yes. If one party believes a surveyor’s fee is excessive, it can be negotiated between the surveyors. If that fails, referred to the third surveyor, who can decide what amount is reasonable.
Finally, what should owners do in practice?
They should ask for clear fees before appointing a building owner’s surveyor. They should check whether the fee is fixed or hourly, and what’s included. Finaly, they should make sure the surveyor is properly qualified and experienced.
Handled properly, party wall surveyor fees should be predictable, transparent and proportionate to the risk and complexity of the works.
If you need assistance with Party Wall Matters, give us a shout today.