Party wall disputes
Work started without notice, damage to your property, or an award that's stalled.
- Free initial consultation
- 5.0 from 15 Google reviews
In short
If work has started without notice, we can write to the building owner requiring notice and an award; in serious cases the neighbour may seek an injunction. If damage has been caused, the Act requires the building owner to make good or pay compensation. Where two surveyors can't agree, the third surveyor decides.
Common situations
- A neighbour has started work on the party wall without serving notice
- Damage has appeared during or after work
- The other side won't appoint a surveyor (we can appoint under section 10(4))
- Surveyors can't agree fees or terms (third surveyor referral)
- Work isn't following the award
Finished work without notice?
If you didn't know about the Act and the work is complete, speak to your neighbour. If there's no damage and no concern, it may go no further. If there is, a retrospective assessment by a surveyor and legal advice may be needed.
What clients say
I started speaking with Guy after my neighbour refused to sign a consensual party wall agreement and began second-guessing structural calculations, becoming increasingly pernickety and difficult to deal with. The situation was turning into a time-consuming headache. Enter Guy – within 24 hours of speaking to my neighbour, he was at their property doing a full schedule of condition and, more importantly, putting them at ease. What could have dragged on for weeks was resolved quickly and calmly, thanks to his no-nonsense, human-first approach. Guy saved me significant time, stress and money – and I honestly can’t recommend him highly enough. He cuts through the bureaucracy, communicates like a real person (not just in legal speak), and makes you feel like you’re in safe, experienced hands. From now on, he’s my go-to for any party wall matters, and I’ll be recommending him to anyone who needs someone solid, efficient, and calm under pressure.
Common questions
What is the third surveyor?
Two appointed surveyors select a third surveyor at the start. If they can't agree on something, either surveyor or either owner can refer it to the third surveyor, whose decision is binding (subject to appeal).
What if my neighbour won't appoint a surveyor?
If they don't appoint within 10 days of a written request, the building owner can appoint a surveyor to act on their behalf.
Source: Party Wall etc. Act 1996 (applies in England and Wales).
Written by Guy Crouch BSc (Hons) MRICS, Director and Chartered Building Surveyor at Manchester Party Wall Surveyors. Last reviewed 26 October 2026. This page is general guidance, not legal advice. About our team
Planning work near a neighbour?
Speak to a chartered surveyor before you start, not after.