Party-Wall & Neighbouring Excavation Surveys
Stay legal, keep neighbours happy, avoid delays
The Party Wall etc. Act 1996 is the rulebook that keeps projects moving and neighbours smiling. Cut a beam into a shared wall, dig within 3 metres of foundations, or even remove a chimney breast, and the Act applies. Follow it and you keep your timeline; ignore it and you risk an injunction, delays, and spiralling costs.
That’s where we come in, AMSurveys provides the notices, schedules, and legally binding Awards that satisfy both building owners and adjoining owners, nationwide.
WHAT IS A PARTY WALL SURVEYOR?
A party-wall surveyor is an impartial professional who:
- Resolves disputes – steps in when owners cannot agree on proposed works affecting a party wall.
- Drafts key documents – prepares notices, photographic schedules of condition, and the final Award (a legal document outlining the works).
- Holds a duty to both owners – even if paid by one, the surveyor must remain unbiased and act in the best interests of all parties involved. (See “FAQs” for access rights and costs.)
WHY AMSURVEYS?
30+ years of structural know-how.- Fantastic team of highly accredited and experienced surveyors.
- Specialist heritage skills (Grade I, II*, and II buildings).
- Full Act administration from start to finish.
- Nationwide reach – no postcode premiums.
WHEN ARE SURVEYORS NEEDED?
Party wall surveyors are typically needed when you are planning building work that affects a party wall or boundary, such as extensions, loft conversions, or excavations near a shared wall. This includes works like cutting into a wall to take the bearing of a beam, or inserting a damp proof course.
A surveyor also becomes essential when a building owner serves a party wall notice on their neighbour and the neighbour does not agree with the proposed work. It is worth noting that the Act does not apply to minor everyday jobs that do not affect the integrity of the party wall, such as fixing plug sockets or fitting wall units or shelving.
WHAT WE DO (IN PLAIN ENGLISH)
At AMSurveys, we act on behalf of both Building Owners and Adjoining Owners when the Party Wall Act is likely to be triggered. We provide comprehensive advice on all types of residential property, ensuring all procedures adhere to the strict guidelines established by the Act.
- Building-Owner Advice: We provide strategic guidance, draft and deliver necessary notices, and prepare schedules of condition so your project starts on time.
- Adjoining-Owner Protection: We offer an independent check of your neighbour’s proposals, ensuring your property is safeguarded.
- Agreed Surveyor Role: We can act as the single impartial surveyor for both sides – often cheaper, faster, and still fully protected.
- Schedule of Condition (Photographic): We create a detailed photographic record of your neighbour’s property before work begins – crucial evidence in case cracks appear later.
Optional call-out box:“The Act isn’t there to stop you building – it’s there to stop disputes and keep builders honest.”
THE SIX-STEP PARTY-WALL PROCESS
| Step | What happens | Our role |
| 1. Identify works | Loft, basement, extension, and excavations | Check if the Act applies |
| 2. Serve notices | 1–2 months before the works | Draft & deliver |
| 3. Neighbour response | Agrees → works can start; Dissents → surveyor(s) appointed | Advise next steps (we can agree on a Surveyor) |
| 4. Schedule of Condition | Photographic record of the neighbour’s property | Provide evidence for later issues |
| 5. Party-Wall Award issued | Legal document setting out how & when work proceeds | Ensure legal protections are in place |
| 6. Works monitored/signed off | Optional re-inspection for extra security | Provide follow-up inspections |
COMMON QUESTIONS (FAQS IN 60 SECONDS)
- Who pays the fees? The building owner – that’s the law.
- Do I need an engineer as well as a party-wall surveyor? Yes, if beams, piles, or underpinning are involved. We work with your SE or can recommend one.
- What if my neighbour starts without a notice? We’ll issue a stop-work letter and guide you through an injunction if needed.
- Are there formal qualifications? The Act doesn’t mandate them, but we’re RPSA / RICS / CABE accredited and carry full Professional Indemnity (PI) cover.
IMPORTANT CONSIDERATIONS
The RICS Boundaries and Party Walls Working Group produces professional guidance relating to party walls, with their latest edition providing advice to surveyors accepting instructions where the Party Wall Act may be relevant. For general advice about disputes involving party walls and boundaries, organisations like PABCEL can provide assistance, and BRE offers guidance on soundproofing solutions. It’s always advisable to seek professional advice from a solicitor or party wall surveyor if you are in any doubt.
Book a free 10-minute call with our team – stop neighbour-stress before it starts.
