4 Easy Steps and Guidelines to Follow for a Party Wall Survey

If you're planning on undertaking construction work that affects a shared wall or boundary with a neighbour, you’ll likely need to follow the Party Wall etc. Act 1996. This is where a party wall survey comes into play. Whether you’re building an extension, loft conversion, or digging foundations, understanding the party wall process is crucial for avoiding disputes and keeping your project on track.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through 4 easy steps and key guidelines to help you navigate a party wall survey with confidence and ease.

What Is a Party Wall Survey?

A party wall survey is an assessment and documentation process involving a shared structure or boundary between two properties, typically conducted when construction work may impact the adjoining owner. The survey aims to protect both parties' interests and ensure the work is lawful, safe, and non-intrusive.

Party walls include:

• Shared walls between semi-detached or terraced houses

• Floors between flats

• Garden walls or boundaries built on or near the line dividing two properties

Step 1: Determine If You Need a Party Wall Agreement

Before starting any construction, it’s vital to determine whether your work requires serving a Party Wall Notice. Not all home renovations trigger the Party Wall Act, but many common projects do.

Types of Work That Usually Require a Party Wall Notice:

• Building on the boundary between two properties

• Making alterations to a shared (party) wall

• Excavating within 3 or 6 metres of a neighbouring structure

• Loft conversions involving steel beams on party walls

• Extension work near the boundary line

Guideline:

Consult with a qualified party wall surveyor early in your planning stage. They can assess the proposed works and advise whether the Party Wall Act applies. If it does, you’ll need to formally notify your neighbours.

Step 2: Serve a Party Wall Notice

Once you’ve established the need for party wall procedures, the next step is serving a Party Wall Notice to your neighbours. This must be done at least 1-2 months before construction starts, depending on the type of work.

What the Notice Should Include:

• Your full name and address

• Details of the proposed work

• Date when the work will begin

• Relevant plans or drawings (if applicable)

Response Scenarios:

• Consent: If the neighbour agrees in writing within 14 days, you can proceed without a surveyor.

• Dissent: If the neighbour objects or fails to respond, both parties must appoint a party wall surveyor (or agree on a joint one).

Guideline:

Always send the notice in writing (and keep proof of delivery). Be clear, polite, and transparent. Sometimes, a friendly discussion before the formal notice can make the process smoother.

Step 3: Appoint a Party Wall Surveyor

If your neighbour disputes the notice, both of you must appoint a party wall surveyor. These professionals are responsible for preparing a legal document known as the Party Wall Award.

The Role of the Surveyor:

• Assess the condition of adjoining properties (through a schedule of condition)

• Ensure proposed works comply with legal and structural standards

• Set out rights and responsibilities of both parties

• Resolve disputes impartially

You can either:

• Appoint one agreed surveyor acting for both parties

• Each appoint a separate surveyor (more common in contentious cases)

Party Wall Award Includes:

• Detailed description of the works

• Working hours and guidelines

• Protective measures for the neighbour’s property

• Access rights (if needed)

• Timeframe and scope

Guideline:

Choose an experienced, impartial party wall surveyor. Costs are typically covered by the person doing the work (the building owner), but clarity in appointment letters is essential.

Step 4: Begin Work and Monitor Progress

Once the Party Wall Award is served, you can proceed with the construction. However, it’s important to comply with the terms set out in the award.

During the Work:

• Stick to agreed working hours

• Respect property access limitations

• Avoid deviation from approved plans

• Monitor structural impact and noise levels

After the Work:

• A follow-up survey may be conducted to check for any damage

• If damage occurs, the building owner is responsible for repairs or compensation

• Maintaining good communication with neighbours can prevent misunderstandings

Guideline:

Keep records of all communication, plans, and photos before, during, and after the work. This will help resolve any potential disputes and prove compliance.

Key Guidelines and Best Practices

Following these additional tips will make your party wall process even more seamless:

1. Start Early

• The process can take several weeks or even months if disagreements arise.

• Start planning your party wall procedures as soon as you finalize your project.

2. Keep Neighbours Informed

• Friendly communication goes a long way.

• Let them know why the work is happening and how it may affect them.

3. Use Clear Documentation

• Make sure all notices, agreements, and reports are written and well-documented.

• Verbal agreements can lead to confusion or legal disputes.

4. Understand Your Rights and Responsibilities

• The Party Wall Act protects both you and your neighbours.

• While you have the right to improve your property, you must avoid causing unnecessary inconvenience.

5. Work with Professionals

• Always involve qualified surveyors, architects, and legal professionals when needed.

• Their experience can help you avoid costly mistakes.

A party wall survey may seem like a complicated legal formality, but it's really a safeguard—for you and your neighbours. By following these 4 easy steps—identifying the need, serving notice, appointing a surveyor, and executing work responsibly—you can avoid disputes, protect your project, and maintain good neighbourly relations.

The Party Wall etc. Act 1996 exists to ensure that changes to shared structures are made fairly and safely. Following its guidelines will not only keep your project on track but will also give your neighbours peace of mind. So if you're gearing up for home improvements, don’t ignore the party wall process—embrace it with professionalism and courtesy.

For more information you can call Express Party Wall Surveyor at 020 3633 0823 or contact us