020 3633 0823

EC1V based, we are generally never more than a 20 min cycle from your project.

Have the reassurance of a Enfield based local party wall surveyor for on hand advice.
  • We provide fixed fees with no hidden costs;
  • Unlimited advice & support during the party wall award making process
  • No high hourly rate if any issues arises ;
  • Full party wall award service, fixed with no hidden charges from £599 all inclusive.
  • Express service available
We provide Party Wall Surveying services for both residential and commercial projects and properties throughout South East London.
  • Extensions
  • Loft conversions
  • Chimney removal
  • Basements
  • Works to boundary walls
  • Any excavations within 3m of your neighbours property
  • Any construction along boundary line
The Party Wall etc. Act 1996 is a significant piece of legislation in the United Kingdom that addresses the rights and responsibilities of property owners concerning party walls, boundary walls, and excavations near neighboring properties. In the context of Enfield, a suburban borough in North London, Party Wall Surveyors play a crucial role in ensuring compliance with the Act and facilitating smooth interactions between property owners. This comprehensive guide will delve into the role of a Party Wall Surveyor in Enfield,, exploring their responsibilities, qualifications, the process they follow, and the benefits they bring to property owners in the region.

Understanding the Party Wall etc. Act 1996

The Party Wall etc. Act 1996 is designed to prevent and resolve disputes between neighboring property owners regarding party walls and adjacent construction works. It applies to properties in England, Wales, and Scotland, including those in Enfield. The Act covers various elements, including party wall notices, party wall agreements, and the appointment of Party Wall Surveyors.

Role of a Party Wall Surveyor

A Party Wall Surveyor is a qualified and experienced professional who acts as an impartial third party in matters related to party walls and construction works affecting neighboring properties. Their primary role is to administer the Party Wall etc. Act 1996, ensuring that property owners adhere to its provisions. Some key responsibilities of a Party Wall Surveyor include:
  • a) Providing Expert Advice: Party Wall Surveyors offer guidance on the Act's requirements and how they apply to specific scenarios. They assist property owners in understanding their rights and obligations, reducing the likelihood of disputes.
  • b) Serving Party Wall Notices: Property owners intending to carry out construction work covered by the Act must serve formal written notices to their neighbors. Party Wall Surveyors can help in preparing and serving these notices correctly.
  • c) Preparing Party Wall Awards: When disputes arise between neighboring parties, Party Wall Surveyors can prepare legally binding Party Wall Awards (also known as Party Wall Agreements). These documents set out the terms and conditions for the proposed works, safeguarding the interests of both parties.
  • d) Conducting Inspections: Surveyors inspect properties to assess their condition before construction works begin. This serves as a baseline for identifying any potential damage caused during the works and resolving disputes accordingly.
  • e) Mediating Disputes: In the event of disagreements between property owners, Party Wall Surveyors act as mediators to resolve conflicts amicably and avoid costly legal proceedings.
Our RICS chartered surveyors are available to serve as the designated surveyor for you, the neighbouring owner, or both parties. To learn more about the importance of employing surveyors for party wall disputes, please get in touch with Express Party Wall Surveyour.

Qualifications and Expertise

To become a Party Wall Surveyor in Enfield or anywhere in the UK, individuals must possess relevant qualifications and expertise. Typically, Party Wall Surveyors have a background in surveying, engineering, or architecture. Many are members of professional bodies such as the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors (RICS), which ensures a high standard of professionalism and ethics.

The Party Wall Process in Enfield

The process of appointing a Party Wall Surveyor and carrying out construction works under the Act involves several steps:
  • a) Issuing the Party Wall Notice: The property owner initiating the works must serve a Party Wall Notice to all affected neighboring properties. This notice should be served at least two months before the proposed construction start date.
  • b) Neighbor's Response: The adjoining property owner has the option to provide their consent, dissent, or do nothing (deemed as dissent). In case of dissent, a dispute arises, and both parties will appoint their respective Party Wall Surveyors.
  • c) Party Wall Award: The appointed Party Wall Surveyors prepare a Party Wall Award, which sets out the rights and obligations of both parties. It includes details of the proposed works, working hours, access rights, and measures to address any potential damage.
  • d) Resolving Disputes: If a dispute arises during the process, the Party Wall Surveyors aim to resolve it through negotiation and mediation. If no resolution is reached, the Surveyors can make an impartial decision within the scope of the Act.
  • e) Commencement of Works: Once the Party Wall Award is agreed upon and served, the property owner can proceed with the construction works as outlined in the document.

Benefits of Hiring a Party Wall Surveyor

Engaging a Party Wall Surveyor in Enfield offers numerous advantages to property owners:
  • a) Legal Compliance: Party Wall Surveyors ensure that property owners adhere to the requirements of the Act, reducing the risk of legal consequences and costly disputes.
  • b) Expert Guidance: Their expertise helps property owners understand their rights and obligations, enabling smoother interactions with neighbors.
  • c) Dispute Resolution: Surveyors act as impartial mediators, striving to resolve conflicts without resorting to legal action.
  • d) Protection of Interests: Party Wall Awards protect the interests of both property owners, defining the scope of works and appropriate measures for damage prevention and resolution.
  • e) Minimizing Delays: By managing the process efficiently, Party Wall Surveyors help minimize delays in construction works.

Conclusion

In Enfield,, the Party Wall Surveyor plays an essential role in facilitating construction works near neighboring properties while ensuring compliance with the Party Wall, etc. Act 1996. Their expertise, guidance, and impartiality contribute to the prevention and resolution of disputes, fostering positive relationships between property owners. Engaging a qualified and experienced Party Wall Surveyor can significantly benefit property owners, enabling them to navigate the process smoothly and protect their interests during construction endeavors.