Party wall surveyor for basements
Basement work usually involves underpinning the party wall and deep excavation. It needs careful control.
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In short
Basements almost always need a Section 6 excavation notice and, where the party wall is underpinned, a Section 2 notice too. Because the risk to neighbours is higher, expect neighbours to appoint their own surveyors, full engineering review, movement monitoring, and possibly a request for security for expenses.
What surveyors will want to see
- Structural engineer's drawings and calculations, including temporary works
- The construction sequence and underpinning method
- Ground investigation information
- A monitoring proposal for the party wall and neighbouring buildings
Security for expenses
Under Section 12 an adjoining owner can ask the building owner to provide security, money held so that the neighbour isn't left out of pocket if the work stops part way through. It's common on basement schemes.
Monitoring during the work
We can carry out construction monitoring visits to check the work follows the award, and record any movement or damage as it happens.
Common questions
Do basements need planning permission?
Often, yes. Party wall matters are separate from planning and building regulations; you need to deal with all three.
Will my neighbour have to move out?
Rarely for domestic basements, but the award will set out working hours, access, noise and dust controls.
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.