Damage claims are one of the most stressful parts of neighbour-related building work—especially when a project is already underway and pressure is on to keep things moving. The good news is that the Party Wall process is designed to handle damage fairly and calmly. A good party wall surveyor’s role isn’t to “pick a side”—it’s to establish the facts, control risk, and agree a sensible route to repair or settlement so the matter doesn’t escalate.
Below is what a professional, experienced party wall surveyor typically does when a damage claim is raised.
1) They act quickly and keep the situation calm
A strong surveyor knows that delay increases anxiety and turns small issues into big disputes. When a neighbour reports damage, the surveyor will usually:
- acknowledge the concern promptly,
- arrange a site visit as soon as reasonably possible,
- explain the process clearly to both owners,
- discourage heated back-and-forth between neighbours.
This early “pressure release valve” is often the difference between a straightforward inspection and a spiralling argument.
2) They rely on evidence, not opinions
Damage claims can be emotional: “That crack wasn’t there before!” / “It’s always been there!” A good surveyor anchors the conversation to evidence, including:
- the Schedule of Condition (the “before” record),
- dated photographs and written notes,
- location-specific comparisons (same wall, same corner, same finish),
- the timeline of the works and key stages (excavation, steel installation, demolition, etc.).
If there was no Schedule of Condition, they will still gather evidence, but they’ll usually explain that causation becomes harder to prove and will need a more careful, balanced assessment.
3) They inspect properly—and know what they’re looking at
A good surveyor doesn’t just glance at a crack and guess. They’ll typically look at:
- crack location, direction, and pattern (e.g., diagonal vs stepped vs hairline),
- whether the crack runs through plaster only or indicates masonry movement,
- whether it’s consistent with common “non-structural” movement (shrinkage/thermal),
- whether it’s near areas most affected by works (party wall line, excavation zones),
- signs of active movement (fresh edges, widening, recurring cracks),
- related symptoms (sticking doors, gaps at skirting, displaced tiles).
They will also consider what type of work is happening. Excavation and underpinning create different risks than a loft conversion beam pocket, for example.
4) They connect the claim to the construction method and timing
One of the strongest indicators of causation is what happened on site and when. A good surveyor will ask:
- What stage are the works at? (excavation completed? steel installed? demolition finished?)
- What methods are being used? (hand dig vs machine, temporary support, sequencing)
- Were there any incidents? (ground collapse, vibration events, water ingress, unexpected ground)
- What controls were in place? (propping, dust/vibration management, weatherproofing)
They may also review drawings, structural details, and method statements again to ensure the works match what was agreed.
5) They protect both properties by managing risk going forward
A damage claim is not only about fixing the past—it’s also about preventing the problem getting worse. A good surveyor may require practical measures such as:
- improved dust/vibration control,
- revised sequencing or temporary support,
- stopping a particular activity until safeguards are in place,
- weatherproofing improvements,
- additional inspections at key stages,
- crack monitoring (only if justified by risk).
Crucially, they keep measures proportionate—enough to protect the neighbour, but not unrealistic or excessive for the building owner.
6) They agree the remedy: making good or compensation
If the surveyor concludes damage is likely attributable to the works, they will usually steer the resolution into one of two routes:
A) Making good (repairs)
This is often preferred where damage is straightforward and access is practical. The surveyor will typically agree:
- what repair is required (replaster, fill, redecorate, tile replacement, etc.),
- the standard of finish,
- who will carry out the work (often the building owner’s contractor),
- timing (often after structural works settle, unless urgent).
B) Compensation (payment in lieu)
This can be the better route where:
- the adjoining owner prefers their own contractor,
- access is difficult,
- the repair is minor and a cash settlement is simpler.
A good surveyor will base compensation on evidence—quotes, reasonable rates, and the scope of repair—rather than guesswork.
7) They document everything clearly (and update the Award if needed)
The best surveyors keep a clean record because it prevents “re-litigating” the same issue later. Depending on the circumstances, they may:
- issue a written determination,
- agree a schedule of repairs,
- record compensation terms,
- add provisions via a further or additional Award.
This documentation protects both owners and gives contractors a clear instruction set.
8) If surveyors disagree, they use the Third Surveyor (instead of escalating to court)
If there are two surveyors and they cannot agree on:
- whether damage is attributable,
- what repair is required,
- what compensation figure is fair,
a good surveyor will consider referring the specific point to the Third Surveyor.
This is typically quicker and cheaper than legal action and keeps the dispute within the party wall framework.
9) They close the loop with a post-works inspection
Once repairs are completed (or compensation paid), a good surveyor will often recommend or carry out a final inspection to confirm:
- repairs are completed to the agreed standard,
- the issue is resolved,
- no further defects have developed.
This “sign-off” stage is an underrated part of keeping neighbour disputes from resurfacing months later.
Why this approach works
A good party wall surveyor manages damage claims by being:
- fast (reducing escalation),
- evidence-led (reducing arguments),
- technically competent (reducing misdiagnosis),
- proportionate (reducing unnecessary cost),
- clear in writing (reducing repeat disputes).
That combination is what keeps projects moving and protects both properties.
Need help with a party wall damage claim?
If you’ve had a damage allegation (or you’re worried damage might be attributed to your works), email mail@howorth.uk or call 07794 400 212 with:
- a short summary of the works,
- the stage you’re at,
- when the damage was noticed,
- and any photos you have.
We’ll advise on the best next step—inspection, documentation, repair plan, or settlement—so the issue is resolved quickly and fairly.