Party walls and building work
If you can't agree
You must appoint a surveyor if you and your neighbour can’t agree. You can appoint a surveyor together or each appoint your own. The surveyors will then agree on a ‘party wall award’.
This is a legal document which says:
- 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)
You can’t act as your own surveyor.
If your neighbour doesn’t appoint a surveyor
You can appoint a surveyor on behalf of your neighbour if they refuse or fail to do so themselves.
If you don’t agree with the award
You can appeal against an award at a county court within 14 days of receiving it. You need to file an appellant’s notice in a county court, explaining why you’re appealing.