Building Owner Surveys
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Locations:
Company : Survey of Party Wall
Contact : (+44) 741 449 4409
Email : info@surveyofpartywall.co.uk
Service Summary
The core purpose of a Building Owner Survey is to act as your essential legal and strategic shield when undertaking construction work near a boundary. It is a proactive measure designed to navigate the complexities of the Party Wall etc. Act 1996, transforming a potential source of conflict into a managed process.
Objectives
- Ensure full legal compliance with the Act.
- Prevent costly disputes and delays.
- Mitigate financial liability for damages.
- Resolve neighbour disagreements impartially.
- Preserve positive neighbourly relations.
- Keep your construction project on schedule.
Tools & Methods Used
- Legally required formal notifications.
- Photographic report documenting
- The final, binding legal agreement.
- Specialist advice on construction and the law.
Protecting Your Property with Expert Party Wall Surveyors in London
When a property owner, known as the Building Owner, plans construction or alterations that may affect a shared wall, boundary, or neighbouring property, the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 applies. To remain legally compliant and to protect both sides, a Building Owner Survey is carried out by a qualified Party Wall Surveyor in London.
Our team of surveyors ensures that every step — from serving notices to resolving disputes — is handled with professionalism, impartiality, and full compliance with the law.
What is a Building Owner Survey?
A Building Owner Survey is an inspection and advisory process conducted by a professional Party Wall Surveyor appointed by the property owner initiating the work. The survey assesses the potential impact of proposed construction on adjoining properties and guarantees compliance with the Act.
By commissioning a survey, the Building Owner can:
- Serve legally valid Party Wall Notices to Adjoining Owners
- Confirm whether proposed works fall under the Party Wall etc. Act 1996
- Prepare or respond to a formal Party Wall Agreement
- Document adjoining property conditions through a Schedule of Condition
- Understand risks associated with structural works and excavation
This process provides both legal protection and practical reassurance, ensuring projects move forward without unnecessary disputes.
When Does a Building Owner Need a Surveyor?
A Building Owner Surveyor is required when planned works involve:
- Building on or adjacent to a boundary line
- Altering, raising, or demolishing a party wall
- Excavating within three or six metres of a neighbouring property (depending on depth)
- Inserting beams into a party wall (e.g., loft conversions)
- Removing chimney breasts or making other structural alterations
If the neighbour disputes the notice, or fails to respond, surveyors must be appointed to resolve the matter legally and fairly.
What Does the Building Owner Surveyor Do?
Though appointed by the Building Owner, a Party Wall Surveyor has a legal duty to act impartially.
Their responsibilities include:
- Reviewing and advising on proposed construction plans
- Serving or assisting with valid Party Wall Notices
- Inspecting neighbouring properties for existing defects
- Preparing a detailed Schedule of Condition
- Drafting and issuing a legally binding Party Wall Award
- Resolving disputes through fair and lawful processes
- Ensuring all obligations under the Act are fully met
This impartiality is crucial to maintaining fairness, compliance, and trust between both parties.
Why is a Building Owner Survey Important?
Failing to comply with the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 can result in:
- Costly disputes and legal claims from neighbours
- Work delays or stop-work injunctions
- Liability for damages to adjoining properties
- Breakdown of neighbourly trust and goodwill
By appointing a qualified Party Wall Surveyor in London, you protect your interests, avoid unnecessary conflict, and keep your project progressing smoothly.
Working with Adjoining Owners
When an Adjoining Owner consents to works, a survey may still be carried out for record purposes. If they dissent or ignore the notice, a dispute is deemed to exist. In such cases, surveyors are appointed by both parties (or one agreed surveyor jointly).
The process is designed to be fair and transparent, ensuring disputes are resolved professionally without hostility.
Key Benefits of a Building Owner Survey
- Full legal compliance with the Party Wall etc. Act 1996
- Impartial dispute resolution through a Party Wall Award
- Comprehensive documentation of adjoining conditions
- Expert guidance on potential structural risks
- Neighbourly relations preserved through professionalism
Need Help?
Our experienced team of Party Wall Surveyors in London provide affordable Party Wall services, ensuring your project remains compliant, neighbourly, and on schedule.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the difference between a Building Owner Survey and a Party Wall Agreement?
A Building Owner Survey is the process of inspection, notice serving, and reporting by a Party Wall Surveyor. A Party Wall Agreement, on the other hand, is the legally binding document issued (known as the Party Wall Award) under the Act.
Who pays for the Building Owner Survey?
In most cases, the Building Owner initiating the works is responsible for covering the surveyor’s fees.
What happens if my neighbour refuses consent?
If the Adjoining Owner dissents or does not respond, a dispute is triggered, and one or two surveyors are appointed to resolve the matter under the Act.
Can I proceed without appointing a surveyor?
No. For works falling under the Act, appointing a surveyor is a legal requirement to ensure compliance and protect both owners.
How quickly can a Building Owner Survey be completed?
Surveys are typically arranged within a few days, with reports and notices prepared promptly to keep your project moving.
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