When a neighbour dissents from your notice, or doesn't respond within 14 days, the next step is a party wall award. It sounds intimidating; in practice it's the document that lets your work go ahead lawfully while protecting everyone involved.
What a party wall award is
An award is a legal agreement prepared by the appointed surveyor or surveyors. It sets out the work that's authorised, how and when it can be carried out, working hours, access arrangements, who pays for what, and it attaches a schedule of condition recording the neighbour's property beforehand. Once served, it's binding on both owners and their successors.
Agreed surveyor or two surveyors
There are two routes, and we'll advise which suits your situation:
Agreed (single) surveyor. Both owners agree to use one impartial surveyor. Cheaper and quicker, and appropriate for most straightforward extensions and lofts.
Two surveyors. Each owner appoints their own. More thorough for complex or contentious work, with a "third surveyor" available to resolve any deadlock. Costs more but can be the right call for basements or where relations are strained.
Either way the surveyor's role is impartial. We're not there to fight for one side, but to apply the Act fairly, which is exactly what makes the award hold up.
Timescales and cost
An award usually takes two to four weeks from appointment. The building owner typically pays the reasonable fees of both surveyors. We quote fixed fees in writing before starting, see the cost guide.
Had a dissent, or need an award drawn up in Worthing? Call 01903 372418.
Free initial advice across Worthing & West Sussex
Call 01903 372418