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Surveyors

Good surveyor checklist

A practical checklist for deciding whether a proposed surveyor is someone you should trust with the statutory process.
Clear, practical guidanceThis article is written for adjoining owners. For advice about your own notice, award or neighbour’s works, speak to Coburns Party Wall.
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Documents and communication

  • The notice is clear, accurate and complete.
  • Useful drawings are included.
  • Your choices are explained fairly.
  • Questions are answered directly and in plain English.

Experience and reputation

  • Party-wall work is a meaningful part of their practice.
  • They can explain experience with similar projects.
  • There is a track record you can check.
  • Repeated complaints about delay, fees or communication are absent.

Approach and fees

  • They can explain how they prepare awards.
  • They can explain what protections they consider and why.
  • The hourly rate and likely total fee are clear.
  • They explain what may create additional fees.

Working relationship

  • You know who will actually deal with the matter.
  • You are comfortable raising concerns.
  • They appear impartial rather than combative.
  • They focus on resolving matters rather than creating work.
Key takeaway

This checklist applies equally to Coburns. Judge any proposed agreed surveyor by the same standards.

This page provides general information about the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 and common practice. It is not legal advice and does not replace advice on the facts of a particular matter.