Agreed Surveyor vs Two Separate Surveyors: Cost and Speed Comparison
An agreed surveyor is usually faster and can cost less overall, because only one fee is paid. Two surveyors give each owner their own adviser. The right choice depends on trust and how complex or contested the work is.
How each works
Under the Act, both owners can appoint one agreed surveyor to make the award, or each can appoint their own. Where there are two, they select a third surveyor who acts only if they cannot agree.
An agreed surveyor must act fairly to both. The award is served on both owners, who then have 14 days to appeal.
Cost
An agreed surveyor generally means one set of fees rather than two, so the process may cost less. Where the work is for the building owner's benefit, they normally pay reasonable costs including the adjoining owner's surveyor's reasonable fees.
Two surveyors can cost more, but do not assume. Complexity and dispute levels matter most. Get written quotes.
Agreed surveyor
- One appointment, one set of fees
- Often quicker, with fewer steps
- Works best when owners get on
- Must act impartially towards both
- Needs the adjoining owner's genuine agreement
Two separate surveyors
- Each owner has their own adviser
- Fees for two surveyors, usually more overall
- Can take longer to reach an award
- Better where trust is low or work is complex
- A third surveyor is selected in case of disagreement
Speed
One surveyor can often move faster: fewer exchanges, less waiting. Two surveyors may take longer, but the process can be more thorough when the neighbour has real concerns.
Trust
The adjoining owner does not have to accept the building owner's suggested surveyor. If they are uneasy, they can appoint their own, and the building owner would normally still bear the reasonable fees.
Making the choice
Ask yourself how well you and your neighbour get on, and how contentious the work is. A simple extension between friendly neighbours often suits an agreed surveyor. A basement, deep excavation or a strained relationship points towards separate surveyors. Whatever you choose, get the appointment confirmed in writing and ask each surveyor to explain how they will keep costs proportionate and reasonable.
Compare them
The panel below sets out the trade-offs in general terms.
Frequently asked questions
Can my neighbour insist on their own surveyor?
Yes. They are not obliged to agree to one shared surveyor.
Who pays for their surveyor?
Usually the building owner's costs include reasonable fees, as the award decides.
Does an agreed surveyor favour the building owner?
They must not. If the neighbour has doubts, they can appoint their own.
Can we switch later?
Take advice. Changing mid-process is complicated.
Related guides
- Agreed Surveyor vs Two Surveyors: The Legal Differences
- Step-by-Step Guide to Appointing a Party Wall Surveyor
- A Guide to the Third Surveyor in Party Wall Procedures
- Who Pays the Party Wall Surveyor Fees?
Last updated: . This page is general information about the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 (England and Wales). It is not legal advice. Every property and dispute is different, so take advice from a party wall surveyor or a solicitor before you act.