How Much Does a Schedule of Condition Report Cost?
No dependable national average exists, so this page does not offer one. A schedule of condition costs more for a large property with many rooms to record, and less for a small one. Ask each surveyor for a written quote for your neighbour's property.
What you are paying for
A schedule of condition is a written and photographic record of the neighbour's relevant rooms and structure before work starts. It is used to judge later damage. Usually it is agreed as part of the award.
What makes it dearer or cheaper
- Size of the neighbouring property and rooms covered.
- Age and condition, since older houses have more to record.
- Travel and access time.
- Level of photographic and written detail.
- Whether it is done as part of an award or separately.
| Cost item | Who normally pays | What drives it |
|---|---|---|
| Inspection visit | Building owner, as the award directs | Size and number of rooms recorded |
| Photographs and report | Building owner | Level of detail required |
| Post-works check | Building owner | Whether damage is alleged |
| Travel time | Building owner | Distance and access |
| Extra areas added later | Whoever asks for them | Changes to the scope of the works |
Who normally pays
The building owner normally pays, because the record protects both sides and exists because of their work. The award should say so. If a neighbour orders their own extra report, that is a separate matter.
Do not skip it
Saving on the schedule can cost far more later. Without a record, a cracked ceiling becomes one person's word against another's.
Getting a fair quote
Ask for a written quote that states the rooms to be recorded, the format, and how long the surveyor will spend. Ask whether re-visits after the work are included.
Some surveyors combine the schedule with other steps, which makes the separate cost hard to see. Ask for it to be itemised, so you can compare quotes fairly and see exactly what the record will cover. A cheaper schedule that omits key rooms is poor value.
Published fee ranges
These figures are quoted as published by the sources named, at the date shown on their pages. They are not quotes, exclude VAT unless stated, and vary by location and job. Always get a fixed fee in writing.
| Item | Published range | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Schedule of condition | £695 plus VAT (initial); £350 plus VAT for subsequent schedules of the same building | Watson Woods Partnership |
| Surveyor hourly rate | average £200 per hour; range £90 to £450 per hour | Checkatrade (2026) |
| Surveyor hourly rate (Party Wall Surveyors guidance) | £100 -£400 per hour depending on location and experience | Vicennium Surveyors LLP (2025) |
Sources vary and some are not independent of each other. Watson Woods figures are for a London firm and exclude VAT.
Frequently asked questions
Who pays for the schedule of condition?
Usually the building owner, as part of the reasonable costs of the process, unless the award says otherwise. The neighbour does not normally pay for it.
Is a schedule of condition legally required?
The Act does not force one, but surveyors almost always include one in the award because it is the best evidence of the neighbour's property before work starts.
Can I take the photos myself?
You can, but a professional record agreed by both surveyors carries more weight.
Does the neighbour sign it?
Usually they or their surveyor agree it. If they refuse, the surveyors can proceed as the Act allows.
Is it needed for every job?
Not always, but it is strongly advisable for work that could affect the neighbour.
Related guides
- Schedule of Condition: Why You Need One Before Building
- The Checklist for a Professional Schedule of Condition Report
- How Much Does a Party Wall Surveyor Cost?
- Party Wall Surveyor Fees: Fixed Fees vs Hourly Rates Explained
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.