If you’ve received a Party Wall Notice under the Party Wall etc. Act 1996, you have three ways to respond. Think of them as green, amber, and red—each perfectly valid, just different levels of formality and protection.
✅ GREEN — Consent
You consent in writing and the formal Party Wall procedures pause (no Award is required).
- Works can start after the statutory lead-in has run.
- You do not waive your rights: if a specific dispute later arises (e.g., alleged damage), you can still trigger the Act’s dispute-resolution process and appoint a surveyor then.
⚠️ AMBER — Dissent and Appoint an Agreed Surveyor
You dissent but both owners jointly appoint one impartial surveyor (the Agreed Surveyor).
- Faster and usually cheaper than having two surveyors.
- The surveyor acts independently for both parties and issues a Party Wall Award setting out what may be done, how and when (time & manner), access protocols, protection measures, and damage procedures.
⛔ RED — Dissent and Appoint Separate Surveyors
You dissent and appoint your own surveyor; the Building Owner appoints theirs.
- The two surveyors agree the Party Wall Award (or refer unresolved points to a Third Surveyor).
- Often preferred for more complex projects where two independent viewpoints are helpful.
Who Pays the Fees?
In most residential cases, the Building Owner pays the reasonable costs of the Party Wall procedures—this typically includes the Agreed Surveyor’s fee or both surveyors’ fees if separate surveyors are appointed.
Quick Tips Before You Decide
- Ask for the drawings and the parts that are notifiable under the Act.
- Respond within 14 days to avoid a deemed dissent and the 10-day follow-up.
Want help choosing the right “light” for your situation?
Email team@simplesurvey.co.uk — Simple Survey are the lowest-cost party wall surveyors across England & Wales. We’ll review your notice, outline your options, and—if needed—set up a robust Award that protects your property and keeps the project moving.