When clients come to us for help with projects affected by the Party Wall etc. Act 1996, one of the first concerns they raise is the potential cost. Party wall awards often feel like an additional expense with no clear benefit to the building owner. After all, they typically don’t seem to add immediate value to the project, and many clients think of them as just another bill. In fact, we’ve had architects tell us that the fees for securing a party wall award can be as high as, or even exceed, the cost of their own design work!
That said, we’re confident that the party wall process can be done cost-effectively, without compromising on professionalism or quality. This isn’t about cutting corners—rather, it’s about using thoughtful strategies to streamline the process and maintain a good relationship with your neighbour.
Building Bridges, Not Walls
Over the years, we’ve seen situations where building owners, unhappy with how their neighbour handled party wall matters, opted for the priciest surveyors available. Naturally, when it was time to serve their own notices, those same neighbours followed suit. This creates a cycle of escalating fees and strained relationships, ultimately costing both parties more.
If you’ve been served a party wall notice, we recommend taking a step back and considering your future plans. How would you want to be treated if you were in your neighbour’s position? The “golden rule” really applies here—treat others how you’d like to be treated.
Of course, you’re entitled to dispute works if you have genuine concerns. Just be sure to weigh your decision carefully. Accommodating your neighbour now could set a positive precedent for the future.
The Power of Communication
In our experience, most problems in the party wall process can be avoided by simply talking things through. The easiest way to save money on party wall matters is to start a conversation with your neighbour before you even have planning permission. When you involve them early, they’re less likely to be blindsided and more likely to cooperate.
Having an informal chat—over a coffee, perhaps—about your plans can save time, money, and potential headaches. Show them your drawings, listen to their concerns, and offer reassurances. You might find that by addressing their worries, you can avoid the need for an official party wall award altogether, keeping costs low and your relationship strong.
Why You Should Appoint a Surveyor
It may be tempting to take the DIY route by downloading a free party wall template from the internet, but that often leads to problems. We’ve seen it time and again: poorly prepared notices that cause delays or, worse, are invalid.
While a template might seem like a cheaper option, we always recommend working with a qualified surveyor to draft and serve your party wall notices. A professional will ensure everything is done correctly from the start, which increases the likelihood that your neighbour will either consent to the works or agree to use your surveyor as the agreed surveyor in case of disputes. A well-prepared notice shows your neighbour that you’re taking the process seriously, which can help to build trust and smooth over potential conflicts.
Consult an Expert Surveyor
Lastly, don’t go it alone. Always consult a qualified surveyor who is a member of a professional body. Their expertise can save you time, money, and stress throughout the entire party wall process.
Be sure to check reviews and ensure they have relevant experience before making a decision. A qualified surveyor will handle all the legal and technical details, making sure everything is in order and saving you from costly mistakes.
At Simple Survey, we’re committed to making the party wall process as smooth and affordable as possible for our clients. With the right approach and a little foresight, it’s possible to navigate the party wall process with minimal expense and maintain good relations with your neighbours.
If you’re unsure where to start, don’t hesitate to get in touch. We’re here to help you understand the party wall process and make sure your project stays on track and within budget.