When living or investing in property in London, building work is often inevitable. Whether you're planning a loft conversion, an extension, or renovating a shared wall, there's one key professional you may need: a Party Wall Surveyor. But who are they, what do they do, and when do you need one?
This article will walk you through everything you need to know about Party Wall Surveyors in London, their role, and why they are crucial for maintaining peace between neighbours during construction.
What is a Party Wall?
A party wall is a wall shared by two (or more) adjoining properties. This can include:
A wall that separates semi-detached or terraced houses
A wall that stands astride the boundary between two properties
A garden wall (in some cases)
Party walls are legally protected under the Party Wall etc. Act 1996, which outlines how building works affecting shared walls or boundaries should be handled.
What Does a Party Wall Surveyor Do?
A Party Wall Surveyor is a qualified professional who acts under the rules of the Party Wall Act. Their primary role is to resolve disputes and ensure that building work does not cause unnecessary damage or inconvenience to neighbours.
Key responsibilities include:
Serving Party Wall Notices to adjoining property owners
Assessing and reviewing plans to identify potential risks to shared structures
Carrying out condition surveys before work begins
Preparing and agreeing on a Party Wall Award