If a conclusion can’t be drawn, then you need a party wall surveyor
If you think your neighbor is unlikely to consent to the planned works it is worth involving a party wall surveyor at an early stage. Starting with the service of notice, more like an informal discussion before the formal notification. And if not properly communicated can lead to disagreement or refusal on the subject matter.
What is a Party Wall Agreement?
This is a document that contains the appointment of a surveyor (aka an Agreed surveyor) from two parties for a wall agreement (an ‘award’). Who resolves any dispute that may arise from a non-consent to the served Party Wall Notice.
Party Wall Agreement consists of the following:
- what work should happen
- how and when it will be carried out
- who will pay for which part and how much will be paid (including surveyor’s fees)
Yes! You Need a Party Wall Surveyor. Why?
Before the start of any renovation work, there is another part to the role of the Party Wall Surveyor. They must be able to provide a party wall notice, to formally tell their neighbors in advance whose property may get affected by the decision taken. If the adjoining owner consent to the served party wall notice, then a building owner can start the proposed work. Party Wall Agreement issues can be wide and varied, so obtaining advice early can help you further understand the process.
Therefore, the party wall surveyor needs to be well-versed in the legal elements and the physical elements of construction. It may not be enough to be a licensed surveyor. Regardless, we ensure that party wall matters are handled reasonably.
A Party Wall Agreement Covers the following:
- The governing guidelines for work progress
- “Schedule of Condition” of the adjacent property with photos
- Contractors full details of liability insurance
- Outlined construction project in detail and drawings
- Neighbors’ Surveyor Fee
- The insurance from the building owner to favor the neighbors
- Details of Surveyor and Access Arrangements for them
- Both the addresses
- The time limit to start the work is one year on an average
- The working hours
What to do concerning neighbors refusal for a Party Wall Agreement
In cases whereby neighbors disagree with the notice provided then he/she must state justifiable reasons to support such disagreement. It is important to note that if the refusal is due to work inconvenience and noise, then the reason is not valid.
Final conclusions are executed by the surveyor who draws the outlines of when and how work is to be carried. It is necessary to give the neighbors a written notice for two months. After getting the notice served, you have another year to complete the project.
Establishing a cordial relation with the neighbors is important, as their consent right from the start, enables smooth progress of the project.
For more information about all our surveying services and to discuss your particular property purchase, please feel free to get in touch with experienced Party Wall Surveyors now.
