What is the role of a Party Wall Surveyor?

When embarking on construction work near or on a boundary line, understanding the role of a Party Wall Surveyor can be pivotal. The Party Wall etc. Act 1996 introduced the need for homeowners to consider the impact of their building works on adjoining properties. A Party Wall Surveyor plays a crucial role in this process. But what exactly does a Party Wall Surveyor do?

Defining the Party Wall Surveyor

A Party Wall Surveyor is a specialist who ensures that construction work involving a party wall is carried out legally, without unnecessary delays or disputes. Their expertise is not just in surveying but also in understanding the legislation surrounding party walls.

The Key Responsibilities

1. Advising on the Party Wall etc. Act 1996

The Act provides a framework for preventing and resolving disputes in relation to party walls. A surveyor offers guidance to property owners on how to comply with the law.

2. Preparing and Serving Notices The surveyor prepares and serves the necessary notices to all affected neighbours. This informs them of the proposed works and serves as a starting point for the party wall agreement process.

3. Surveying the Property Before work begins, the surveyor conducts a condition survey on the adjoining property to record its state. This is important for handling claims of damage attributed to the construction work.

4. Creating Party Wall Awards This involves drafting a legal document (the 'Award') that outlines how the work should progress, and covers conditions that aim to protect adjoining owners from damage and unnecessary inconvenience.

5. Dispute Resolution If a dispute arises, the surveyor can act as an agreed-upon surveyor for both parties, ensuring fairness and legal compliance throughout the resolution process.

The Importance of a Party Wall Surveyor

The involvement of a Party Wall Surveyor helps ensure that building owners carry out their works within the bounds of the law, while also taking into account the rights and interests of their neighbours. Their role is to provide peace of mind and clarity for all parties involved in potentially complex party wall matters.

Hiring a Party Wall Surveyor is more than a legal formality; it's a step towards responsible and respectful construction. Their expertise not only helps to prevent disputes but also facilitates a smoother building process. 24

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