by Howorth | Jan 26, 2026 | Articles
Not in the way people usually mean it. A party wall surveyor is not an advocate like a solicitor. Under the Party Wall etc. Act 1996, surveyors have a duty to act independently and impartially, even if you appoint and pay them. Their job is to manage risk, set fair...
by Howorth | Jan 26, 2026 | Articles
Yes—sometimes you can, and when it works, it can reduce duplication, cost, and delay. However, switching from the “two surveyors” route to an Agreed Surveyor isn’t automatic, and you generally can’t do it unilaterally once separate appointments have been made. Whether...
by Howorth | Jan 26, 2026 | Articles
It can do, but it doesn’t always—it depends on which version you instruct. RICS recognises two Level 2 formats: RICS Home Survey – Level 2 (survey only) – condition report without a valuation. RICS Home Survey – Level 2 (survey and valuation) – the same condition...
by Howorth | Jan 26, 2026 | Articles
Yes — it’s possible, but only if both owners agree and the surveyor is willing and able to act impartially under the Party Wall etc. Act 1996. An Agreed Surveyor is not “your surveyor” or “their surveyor.” Once appointed as the Agreed Surveyor, they must act...
by Howorth | Jan 26, 2026 | Articles
When a party wall matter becomes difficult, people often assume the next step is “court.” In reality, the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 builds in its own dispute-resolution mechanism through the Third Surveyor, which is usually faster, cheaper, and more practical than...
