Having dealt with thousands of Party Wall Notices, Awards and surveyors over the years, we’ve seen the full spectrum – from the truly excellent to the frankly problematic.
So what actually makes a good Party Wall Surveyor? It’s not complicated, and the best surveyors tend to share the same core qualities. Below we break down what we at Simple Survey believe are the clear tell-tale signs you’ve found someone you can trust with your Party Wall matters.
1. Real, Relevant Experience
Like any profession, there is no substitute for experience. A good Party Wall Surveyor should not just “dabble” in the Act – they should be regularly instructing on it across a wide range of project types.
In practice, you want someone who has handled:
- Loft conversions and roof alterations
- Front, side and rear extensions
- Complex structural works (steel beams, major openings, structural alterations)
- Works to party fence walls (shared garden walls)
- Works to party structures (floors/ceilings in flats)
- Underpinning and basement extensions
- Section 11(11) “use/enclosure” cases – where one owner builds off or makes use of an existing wall
- Section 2(2)(b) works – where works are necessary due to defect or disrepair and costs may be apportioned
If your surveyor has confidently dealt with all of these, they are far better placed to handle whatever scenario arises on your project.
2. Genuine Understanding of the Party Wall etc. Act 1996
The Act is relatively short, but it’s highly technical and full of traps for the unwary. Good surveyors:
- Know the sections, definitions and procedures inside out
- Keep up to date with case law that changes how the Act is interpreted
- Read and follow professional guidance notes from bodies like RICS and others
- Understand how the Act interacts with wider issues (defects, boundaries, special foundations, cost sharing etc.)
A strong surveyor doesn’t just quote sections at you – they explain how the Act applies practically to your specific project and neighbour relationships.
3. Strong Building Pathology & Construction Knowledge
Party Wall surveying is not just about the law – it’s also about buildings and risk.
A good Party Wall Surveyor will:
- Understand how buildings are put together – foundations, walls, load paths, roofs, floors
- Recognise likely defects, weaknesses and high-risk details
- Challenge poor or vague design details that create unnecessary risk
- Spot when an issue is contractor error, poor method or inadequate protection
- Propose sensible protective measures that actually work on site (e.g. hand tools near sensitive walls, temporary works, protection to neighbouring surfaces, careful sequencing of excavations, etc.)
Without robust building pathology experience, the “protections” in an Award can be little more than words on a page.
4. Dispute Resolution Qualities
The very purpose of the Act is to resolve disputes, not create them. A good Party Wall Surveyor:
- Treats the process as a form of mediation/tribunal, not a fight
- Is neutral and level-headed, even where owners are under stress
- Knows how to de-escalate situations before they become personal disputes
- Understands when a matter needs firm handling – and when it doesn’t
- Avoids unnecessary third surveyor referrals and court involvement wherever possible
Be cautious of any surveyor who sells you a “we’ll fight for you” approach. Under the Act, surveyors are statutory appointees, not attack dogs. They must act impartially, even if you appointed them.
5. Proper Qualifications & Professional Standing
Crucially, under the Act anyone can call themselves a “Party Wall Surveyor”. The Act’s definition doesn’t require:
- Formal qualification
- Insurance
- Experience
- Regulatory oversight
That’s why you need to look beyond the job title.
Strong indicators you’re dealing with a serious professional include:
- Membership of a recognised professional body such as:
- RICS – Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors
- CIOB – Chartered Institute of Building
- CABE, CIArb, etc.
Be careful not to confuse club memberships or letters like FPWS or PTS with professional qualifications. These can show interest in Party Wall matters, but they are not the same as being a RICS or CIOB qualified surveyor.
6. Calm, Measured, Professional Demeanour
A good Party Wall Surveyor should give you confidence that they can manage:
- Stressed or anxious owners
- Strong-willed or inexperienced counterpart surveyors
- Difficult conversations around damage, access or costs
Look for someone who is:
- Calm, clear and consistent in their explanations
- Comfortable saying “no” when expectations are unrealistic
- Focused on solutions, not scoring points
- Able to stand their ground when necessary, without being combative
The best surveyors quietly get the job done, protect both sides properly and keep the project moving.
7. Client Care (Even Though You’re Not Technically “the Client”)
Under the Act, you’re not a “client” in the usual commercial sense – you’re an appointing owner. The surveyor’s legal duty is to the Act and the dispute, not to your personal wishes.
However, good surveyors still provide excellent client care:
- Keeping you informed at key stages
- Explaining what’s happening and why – in plain English
- Letting you know about options, risks and likely outcomes before decisions are made
- Making sure you’re not surprised by Awards, costs or timescales
The worst surveyors leave owners in the dark and make decisions with no communication. A good surveyor combines statutory impartiality with strong communication and care.
Simple Survey – Experienced, Qualified, Measured
At Simple Survey, all Party Wall matters are handled by experienced, RICS-qualified surveyors with deep building pathology knowledge and day-to-day familiarity with the Act in real projects – from simple lofts to complex basements.
We focus on:
- Clear, impartial advice
- Fixed, transparent fees
- Smooth, efficient administration of the Act
- Protecting both properties while keeping projects moving
If you’re unsure whether your works fall under the Act, or you’d like help choosing the right route (Agreed Surveyor vs two surveyors), we’re happy to help.
Simple Survey — Fixed Nationwide Cost Chart (Guide)
| Service | What’s Included | Fixed Fee (incl. VAT) |
|---|---|---|
| Party Wall Notice (per Adjoining Owner) | Compliance check, drafting, service & response tracking | £25 |
| Agreed Surveyor Award | Single impartial surveyor acting for both owners | £300 |
| Building Owner’s Surveyor Award | Acting for Building Owner in a two-surveyor appointment | £300 |
FAQ – Spotting a Good Party Wall Surveyor
Q. Do Party Wall Surveyors have to be qualified?
No – the Act’s definition is very light, which is why you should actively look for surveyors with RICS, CIOB or similar professional qualifications and a proven track record in Party Wall matters.
Q. How can I check a surveyor’s credentials?
Ask for their membership number for RICS or other professional bodies and check it on the relevant body’s website. Don’t be afraid to ask about their recent Party Wall cases and typical project types.
Q. Is it safer to use an Agreed Surveyor?
For straightforward projects and reasonable neighbours, an Agreed Surveyor can be efficient and cost-effective. For more complex or sensitive situations, two surveyors may provide more comfort. A good surveyor will talk you through the pros and cons.
Q. What if I realise later that my surveyor isn’t up to the job?
Under the Act, once appointed, you cannot simply “fire” your surveyor. That’s why careful selection at the outset is critical. Always take the time to check experience, qualifications and demeanour before signing any appointment.