Party Wall Surveying Services London

Thinking about building an extension, digging near your boundary, or working on a shared wall? Then chances are, you’ve already stepped into the world of Party Wall Surveying. It may sound complicated, but with dRAW Architecture by your side, the process doesn’t need to be stressful. We help you navigate the Party Wall etc. Act 1996, making sure your project moves forward legally, smoothly, and without unnecessary tension with your neighbours.

What Exactly Is a Party Wall?

A party wall isn’t just the wall between two houses—it can also be a garden wall, boundary fence, or even part of a structure sitting right on the line between two properties. Because it’s shared, any work that affects it must follow a legal framework to protect both owners.

That’s where the Party Wall Act comes in. It sets out how neighbours should be informed, how agreements are made, and how disputes are resolved if they arise.

How We Help You Through the Process

• Step 1: Clear Advice from the Start: Before anything else, we’ll look at your plans and confirm whether the Act applies. Not every project needs a Party Wall Notice, so we’ll be honest from day one.
  
  
• Step 2: Drafting & Serving Notices: If your project does require it, we prepare and serve the Party Wall Notice—a formal document that explains your intended works to your neighbour.
  
  
• Step 3: Handling Responses: Neighbours can either consent or dissent. If they’re happy, things move quickly. If they raise concerns, that’s when surveyors (like us) step in to formalise the process.
  
  
• Step 4: Agreements & Awards: We manage communication, paperwork, and—if needed—the creation of a Party Wall Award. This document outlines the rights and responsibilities of both parties, making sure your project is protected and your neighbour’s concerns are addressed.
  
  
• Step 5: Support Until Work Begins: We stay with you until the paperwork is complete, giving you the green light to move forward with construction confidently.
  
  

Why dRAW Architecture?

• We Speak the Language – Legal documents can feel overwhelming. We translate the jargon into clear advice you can act on.
  
  
• We Keep Things Calm – Building work can sometimes cause friction. Our role is to keep conversations professional and respectful.
  
  
• We Understand London Projects – From terraced homes to mews houses, we know the kind of party wall issues that come up in London.
  
  
• We Save You Time – No chasing, no confusion, we handle the paperwork and communication so you don’t have to.
  

Common Questions About Party Wall Surveying

Do I always need to serve a Party Wall Notice?‍

Not always. It depends on the type and location of your work. We’ll confirm this for you during our initial advice.

What if my neighbour doesn’t respond?‍

If they don’t reply within 14 days, the law treats it as a “dissent,” and we then move towards a Party Wall Award.

How long does the whole process take?‍

Timelines vary, but generally allow at least a month before your planned construction start date.

Who pays for the surveyor?‍

Usually, the building owner (you) pays, since you’re the one carrying out the works.

Start Your Project the Right Way

Don’t let paperwork or disputes slow down your dream project. With dRAW Architecture’s Party Wall Surveying services, you’ll have a clear path forward, complete compliance with the law, and peace of mind that your neighbours’ interests are respected too.

📞 Contact our London studio today and let’s make your project neighbour-friendly and stress-free.