Questions to Ask a Party Wall Surveyor Before Hiring Them
Ask about experience with your type of work, how fees are set, what is included, how long it should take and what happens if the neighbour dissents. Write down the answers or ask for them in writing.
Your action checklist
- Prepare a short description of your project and your neighbour's property.
- Ask each surveyor the same questions.
- Request written quotes, not just verbal answers.
- Compare what is included, not only the total.
- Ask for engagement terms before you commit.
- Keep notes of who said what.
Experience and credentials
Ask how many party wall matters they handle in a year, whether they have dealt with work like yours and which professional body they belong to. Then check it on that body's website.
Good answers
- Clear about what is and is not included in the fee
- Explains steps and timing under the Act
- Says honestly when the cost may rise and why
- Welcomes questions about credentials and insurance
- Confirms impartiality and the duty to both owners
Poor answers
- It depends, with no further explanation
- Promises a guaranteed outcome or timescale
- Avoids naming a professional body
- Dismisses the need for a schedule of condition
- Pressures you to appoint before comparing quotes
Fees and terms
Ask whether fees are fixed or hourly, and what triggers extra charges. Ask what is included: notices, site visits, the schedule of condition, the award, and any response to a dissent. Ask how they bill and when payment is due.
Process and timing
Ask what the timetable looks like from notice to award, allowing for the 14-day response period and the notice period of 1 or 2 months. A surveyor who promises speed without explanation deserves caution.
Independence
Ask how they handle the duty to act fairly under the Act. A trustworthy surveyor will explain it plainly and will not promise to favour you.
Compare the answers side by side rather than relying on memory. A surveyor who explained things clearly and gave you a written quote covering each stage is usually better than one who was cheaper but vague. If the neighbour will be appointing their own surveyor, tell your chosen surveyor early, so that introductions and access to the property can be planned without delay.
Good and poor answers
The panel below shows what to listen for.
Frequently asked questions
Should I ask for references?
You can, though confidentiality limits what they share.
Do I ask about insurance?
Yes. Ask what professional indemnity cover they carry.
How long should they take to reply?
A prompt, clear reply is a good sign.
Do I pay before work?
Agree the payment terms in writing and be cautious about large upfront sums.
Related guides
- How to Choose a Party Wall Surveyor
- Red Flags When Hiring a Party Wall Surveyor
- How to Verify a Party Wall Surveyor's Credentials (RICS vs Faculty vs Pyramus & Thisbe)
- Why Cheap Party Wall Surveyors Cost More in the Long Run (Spotting Hidden 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.