RESPONSIBILITIES OF ADJOINING OWNERS
WHO IS AN ADJOINING OWNER?
Who is an Adjoining Owner: Someone who receives formal Party Wall Notices from the Building Owner regarding proposed works.
- Dissent or Consent: Adjoining Owners can either dissent or consent to the notice within 14 days of receiving it. Dissent meaning a legally binding Party Wall Agreement (Award) would need to be put in place prior to the commencement of the works. Consent meaning that the Adjoining Owners are permitting the Building Owner to proceed, without any responsibility for any damage that may be caused to Adjoining Owners property in the process of construction.
- Dispute Resolution: If the Adjoining Owner dissents, a Surveyor or Surveyors are appointed to administer a Party Wall Award (Party Wall Agreement) in accordance with the Party Wall etc. Act 1996.
- Involvement of Third Surveyor: Both appointed Surveyors select a Third Surveyor for settling unresolved issues, although this is rare.
- Legally Binding Award: The Party Wall Award specifies the parties involved, scope of works, and agreed safeguards for minimal inconvenience.
- Schedule of Condition: A report documenting the condition of the Adjoining Owner’s property at risk prior to the commencement of the notifiable works and relevant documents/drawings are appended to the Award.
- Post-Work Inspection: Often referred to as a Final Check-off Inspection. The appointed Surveyor or Surveyors inspect the Adjoining Owners property after completion to ensure no damage, referring to the Schedule of Condition.
- Surveyor Fees: The Building Owner is usually responsible for both their own and the Adjoining Owner’s Surveyor fees. The Adjoining Owners Surveyors fees are usually agreed upon in the final Award.
- Agreed Surveyor: Both parties can appoint a single impartial Surveyor known as the ‘Agreed Surveyor,’ or the Adjoining Owner can choose their own independent Surveyor
- Seeking Advice: If you have received a Party Wall Notice and need guidance on protecting your property, our friendly team is available for advice.
TESTIMONIALS FROM OUR CLIENTS
Over the years our team, has worked for large companies, private home owners, local authorities, housing trusts and charities.
Sophie Nair
Loft Conversion
Rhys Sayers
Loft Conversion
Exceptional service provided by The Party Wall Guru! Contacted The PWG team to get a party wall agreement with my neighbour. Knowledgeable, great at communicating and efficient throughout the whole process. Wouldn't hesitate to use their services in the future again! Would definitely recommend.
Zohre Kaplan
Rear Extension
I have just recently had a rear extension done and expected the party wall process to be daunting! After speaking with the team at PWG I felt less stressed. They were able to get everything in place fairly quickly and managed my expectations very well! Great service - highly recommended.
Ricky Beiant
Rear Extension
Thoroughly enjoyed working with the Party Wall Guru when getting my rear extension done. I was taken care of every step of the way! Clear communication, easy to follow process. I would trust these guys for any future job so I highly recommend them.
Gurveer Kaur
Loft Conversion
Very informative, extremely knowledgeable.
I could trust the job would be done without hesitation, Very reliable. Would highly recommend. Thank you Party Wall Guru.
I could trust the job would be done without hesitation, Very reliable. Would highly recommend. Thank you Party Wall Guru.
Kavita Chadwick
Loft Extension
I have just recently had a rear extension done and expected the party wall process to be daunting! After speaking with the team at PWG I felt less stressed. They were able to get everything in place fairly quickly and managed my expectations very well! Great service - highly recommended.
Our extensive resume consists of many projects we have assisted Adjoining Owners on
If you have any further questions, please visit our blogs! or FAQs!
March 3, 2026. 2:50 PM
Removing a Chimney Breast on a Party Wall: Costs, Process & Legal Requirements
Removing a chimney breast is a popular way to gain extra space in Victorian and 1930s terraced or semi-detached homes. While it may appear to be a straightforward building job, removing a chimney breast on a party wall involves structural considerations and strict legal obligations. If improperly handled, it can
February 12, 2026. 9:00 AM
Party Wall Award Costs Explained: What You Should Budget For
If you’re planning building work in London, understanding the cost of a party wall award should be a key part of your budget. Many homeowners are surprised to learn that party wall matters are separate from planning permission and building control, and that additional fees from outsourcing a professional may
February 5, 2026. 3:22 PM
Common Party Wall Disputes: Insights from Party Wall Specialists
Party wall disputes are one of the most common causes of disagreement between neighbouring property owners that we encounter. This is especially common in London, where homes have been built so close together and renovation work continues to gain popularity. Extensions, loft conversions and basement projects often involve shared walls
January 20, 2026. 9:00 AM
What is a Licence to Alter, and Do you Require One?
If you own a leasehold property in London and are planning building works, you may have been told that you need a Licence to Alter before your project begins. For many leaseholders, this requirement can feel confusing or unnecessary, particularly when planning internal changes or renovations that don’t appear to
January 13, 2026. 10:39 AM
Do you Need an Award for a Loft Conversion or a Single-Storey Extension?
Home improvements such as loft conversions and single-storey extensions are incredibly popular across London. With space at a premium, extending upwards or outwards is often the most practical way to add value and usable living area. However, many homeowners are unaware that these works can trigger legal responsibilities under the
January 1, 2026. 9:00 AM
A Step by Step Guide on How to Officially Serve a Party Wall Notice
When starting a construction project that affects a shared wall, boundary, or outbuilding, the party wall process becomes a crucial aspect of planning and legal compliance. Understanding how to properly serve a party wall notice is essential for anyone looking to carry out building works near or on a shared
I have just had my loft done and I appointed the guys at party wall guru to complete a party wall agreement for me. They kept me updated throughout the entire process. I was extremely pleased with their services.The party wall guru team were very helpful and I would definitely recommend.