The Party Wall Advice Co. is a specialist firm of experienced party wall surveyors based in London. We provide expert advice and services under the Party Wall etc. Act 1996, helping clients across London and the Home Counties navigate all aspects of party wall matters with clarity and confidence. Find Out More >
Our Services
At The Party Wall Advice Co., we offer a full range of expert services to support you through every stage of your party wall matters. Whether you're a building owner, adjoining owner, or seeking an agreed surveyor, we’re here to help. Our services include free party wall advice, preparation and service of notices, schedule of condition reports, and professional representation under the Party Wall etc. Act 1996. With clear guidance and a practical approach, we make the process straightforward and stress-free.
Party Wall Procedure and Timeline:
When It Applies and How It Works
The Party Wall etc. Act 1996 applies when building work affects a shared wall, boundary, or involves excavation near a neighbouring property. Common examples include cutting into a party wall, building at the boundary, or digging foundations close to another structure.
Not sure if the Act applies? Contact us and we’ll help you determine.
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Preparation of
The Party Wall Award
The Party Wall Award (agreement) is a formal document that outlines:
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The scope of the proposed works.
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Any safeguards to protect the neighbour’s property.
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The timetable for the work.
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Any agreed compensation for damage or inconvenience.
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The schedule of conditions (Inspection/Survey), which records the state of the adjoining property before work begins.
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Serve a Party Wall Notice
If the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 is applicable, and your work affects a neighbouring property, you must serve a Party Wall Notice to your neighbour(s) at least 2 months before starting work (for building work) or 1 month before (for excavation work). However, it is recommended to serve notices 8 to 12 weeks in advance to allow sufficient time for discussions or the appointment of surveyors if needed. The notice must describe the proposed works and the expected timeline.
The building owner can serve the Party Wall Notice themselves. If the adjoining owner dissents or doesn’t respond within 14 days, the building owner can appoint a surveyor to resolve the matter.
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Service of The Party Wall Award
Once the Party Wall Award is finalised, including any inspections, necessary drawings, it is served to all parties. The Building Owner may then legally begin the work, provided any required notice periods have expired or been waived. The Works must be carried out in accordance with the terms of the Party Wall Award.
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Neighbour’s Response
Once the notice is served, your neighbour has three possible responses:
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Agree to the works: If they agree in writing, you can proceed without further dispute.
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Dissent or object: If your neighbour disagrees or doesn’t respond within 14 days, a Party Wall Surveyor (or two, if there's no agreement) must be appointed to create a legally binding agreement (the award).
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Consent with conditions: They may agree with conditions, such as a schedule of condition to protect their property.
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Appointment of Surveyor(s)
If there's no agreement, you and your neighbour must each appoint a surveyor (or agree on an agreed surveyor). These surveyors will:
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Assess the proposed works.
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Ensure the party wall works are done safely and with minimal impact on the neighbour’s property.
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Resolve any disputes and prepare a Party Wall Award.
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Commencing with the Works
The building owner can begin the proposed works once the Party Wall Award has been served and the notice period has ended, unless the adjoining owner has formally consented to the works starting earlier. In cases where consent is given, the building owner may commence work without waiting for the full notice period to expire.
Once the award is in place, all works must be carried out strictly in accordance with the terms of the Party Wall Award.
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Final Inspection
Upon completion of the works, the appointed surveyor(s) if necessary will carry out a final inspection, referencing the original Schedule of Condition. If no issues are found, the file is closed. If damage is identified, the Adjoining Owner can either have the Building Owner’s contractor carry out the repairs or accept a payment in lieu and appoint their own contractor.
In the event of a dispute—whether over damage, the award, or any related payments—either party may request a review by the surveyor(s).
about
US
At The Party Wall Advice Co., we are a professional and highly experienced party wall surveying firm dedicated to delivering bespoke services that meet the unique needs of each client. No two projects are the same—and that’s why we take the time to tailor our approach, offering clear, practical guidance every step of the way.
We specialise in all matters under the Party Wall etc. Act 1996, working with homeowners, developers, and neighbours to ensure compliance, reduce disputes, and keep projects moving forward smoothly. Whether you're planning a loft conversion, rear extension, basement dig, or new build, we’re here to support you from start to finish.
We proudly provide free initial advice, with no obligation—because we believe that well-informed clients make better decisions.
Our coverage spans most of London and surrounding areas, and we’re always happy to discuss how we can help, no matter the scale or stage of your project.
Get in touch today for friendly, expert advice you can trust.
