Party Wall Services
Clear, practical advice for adjoining works
Finitas Engineering provides Party Wall Surveyor services in accordance with the Party Wall etc. Act 1996, supporting building and development works affecting shared structures, boundaries and neighbouring properties.
We guide Building Owners and Adjoining Owners through the Party Wall process, providing clear advice and taking a practical, proportionate approach to resolving matters between parties.
When the Party Wall Act Applies
The Party Wall etc. Act 1996 provides a framework for certain works carried out on or close to neighbouring properties.
The Act may apply to:
- Works to an existing party wall or party structure
- Construction of new walls at or astride a boundary
- Excavation close to neighbouring buildings or structures
- Cutting into or altering party structures
- Structural alterations affecting shared construction
- Demolition, extension and redevelopment works
Whether the Act applies depends on the nature and location of the proposed works. We can review proposals at an early stage and advise on the appropriate process.
Party Wall Surveyor Services
We can act for Building Owners undertaking works and Adjoining Owners affected by them, as well as acting as Agreed Surveyor where both parties choose to appoint the same surveyor.
Our services include:
- Initial Party Wall advice
- Review of proposed works
- Preparation and service of notices
- Acting for Building Owners
- Acting for Adjoining Owners
- Acting as Agreed Surveyor
- Liaison with the other appointed surveyor
- Schedules of Condition
- Preparation and agreement of Party Wall Awards
- Review of drawings, calculations and construction proposals
- Advice throughout the works where Party Wall matters arise
Our focus is on administering the requirements of the Act fairly and efficiently while helping the parties understand what is required and why.
Schedules of Condition
A Schedule of Condition provides a clear record of the condition of an adjoining property before notifiable works commence.
We undertake inspections and prepare photographic schedules recording relevant existing defects and conditions, providing an agreed reference should concerns arise during or following the works.
Engineering & Party Wall
Our engineering background allows us to understand the technical implications of the works behind the Party Wall process.
Where proposals involve structural alterations, foundations, excavations or other engineering works, we can review the technical information and consider how the proposed construction may affect adjoining structures.
Where Finitas Engineering is also providing civil or structural engineering services for the development, the engineering and Party Wall requirements can be considered together while maintaining the independence required of the surveyor when carrying out their statutory role.
A Proportionate Approach
Party Wall matters do not need to become unnecessarily adversarial or complicated.
Our approach is to apply the requirements of the Act fairly, communicate clearly with everyone involved and help establish the arrangements necessary for the proposed works to proceed while protecting the interests of both owners.