How Much Does a Party Wall Surveyor Cost?
Most party wall work that’s carried out by a surveyor will be charged on an hourly basis. But surveyors acting as a building owner’s surveyor will often provide a fixed fee for a party wall Award. This is because the building owner will carry out the majority of the time-consuming work, like drafting the photographic schedule of condition and the party wall Award.
In terms of actual numbers, a surveyor’s hourly rates can vary hugely, starting at around £80 an hour + VAT, going all the way up to £400 per hour + VAT. The rate they set is usually based on two things – the surveyors’ location and their experience. For example, a surveyor in London will usually be considerably more expensive than one based in Hampshire.
Because the cost for a party wall surveyor is based on that hourly rate, it’s important for you to consider how much time it will take that surveyor to complete your party wall Award. If your works are complicated – like a basement excavation – is likely to take more time than a single-story extension.
It’s important to remember that although a more experienced party wall surveyor might have a higher hourly rate, they mayalso need to spend less time working on the Award than an inexperienced surveyor would.
Who Pays for A Party Wall Surveyor?
In normal circumstances it’s the building owner who’s carrying out the notifiable works who will pay the party wall surveyors fees. This also means that if your neighbours dissent to the works and appoint their own surveyor, then you’ll be liable for the fees of your neighbour’s surveyor too.
According to the Party Wall etc Act 1996, the surveyors’ fees will include:
• Making or obtaining an Award
• Reasonable inspections of work that the Award relates to
• Any other matters arising out of the dispute
This should be everything, but it is important to read through a breakdown of the fees to be sure you know what you’re paying for.
What Factors Can Affect the Cost?
When you’re budgeting for party wall works, there are a number of things that can influence how much they will cost. This includes:
• The size of your property
• The size of your neighbour’s property (this is because photographic schedules of condition take longer to complete)
• The quality and completeness of the architectural drawings and plans (incomplete or vague drawing will mean the surveyor has to spend more time understanding your proposals. In some cases, it might even mean more drawings are needed before party wall notices can be served)
• The number of surveyors needed. You might have one, two or even three surveyors involved
• The risk of damage to your neighbour’s property (more complicated work in close proximity increases the risk)
• The location of the property (is the surveyor local? Or are you in an area where surveyor fees are higher?)
• Your relationship with your neighbours and the likelihood of disputes requiring negotiations.
If you’re looking to carry out works to your building but you’re concerned about the costs associated with your obligations under the Party Wall Act, then we can help. Our team of experienced party wall surveyors work with building owners to navigate these things day in, day out, and would be more than happy to talk through your options and find a solution that suits you. Just call 023 8155 0051 today, or check out our YouTube channel, where we share a lot more information about Party Wall matters.
For more expert advice on surveying and property matters, check out our range of informative videos on our website or YouTube channel. Harrison Clarke Chartered Surveyors is here to guide you every step of the way!
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