When building works affect a shared wall, structure, or boundary, the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 requires a formal legal document to regulate how the works proceed. This document is called a Party Wall Award.
At Echelon Party Wall Surveyors, we prepare Awards that are compliant, practical, and protective. Whether you are a homeowner planning an extension or a developer starting a major scheme, our service ensures your project moves forward lawfully and without unnecessary disputes.
📞 Call 01543 52 37 37 for expert advice today.
What Is a Party Wall Award?
A Party Wall Award (sometimes referred to as a “Party Wall Agreement”) is a legally binding decision made by surveyor(s) under the Act. It sets out:
- Which works are permitted
- How and when they may be carried out
- What protections must be in place for the adjoining property
- Access rights for surveyors and contractors
- Provisions for damage and how repairs will be made
- Who pays fees and costs
When Do You Need a Party Wall Award?
You will need an Award if your neighbour:
- Formally dissents to your Party Wall Notice
- Fails to respond within 14 days (deemed dissent)
- Raises concerns about the scope or safety of your works
If your neighbour consents in writing, an Award is not strictly required — but it is still wise to have a Schedule of Condition recorded for peace of mind.
Our Party Wall Award Service
At Echelon, we provide a complete end-to-end service:
- Initial advice – Confirm whether your project requires an Award.
- Surveyor appointment – Act as Agreed Surveyor or your appointed surveyor.
- Inspection – Carry out a Schedule of Condition to record the neighbour’s property.
- Award preparation – Draft a clear, tailored Award covering method statements, drawings, timings, access, and damage clauses.
- Award service – Deliver the signed Award to both owners, ensuring legal compliance.
- Follow-up – Support during works and resolve any issues that arise.
What Does Our Award Cover?
Every Award we issue includes:
- Full details of the proposed works
- Reference to relevant sections of the Act
- Agreed method statements and drawings
- Surveyor inspection findings
- Protective measures for adjoining property
- Access permissions for contractors or surveyors
- Costs and fee allocation
- Damage repair obligations
- Variations and dispute resolution clauses
How Long Does a Party Wall Award Take?
- Simple projects (extensions, lofts): 2–4 weeks
- Complex projects (basements, deep excavations): 6–12 weeks
Starting early avoids costly delays.
How Much Does a Party Wall Award Cost?
Costs depend on project size and number of surveyors involved:
- One Agreed Surveyor: £800–£1,500
- Two Surveyors: £1,500–£3,000+
In almost all cases, the building owner (who benefits from the works) pays the surveyor fees.
Why Choose Echelon Party Wall Surveyors?
- Specialist focus on Party Wall services
- Independent expertise – impartial, legally compliant advice
- Efficient turnaround – to keep your project on track
- Fixed fees – no hidden extras
- Local coverage – Staffordshire, West Midlands, Derbyshire, Cheshire, Shropshire, Leicestershire
📞 Call 01543 52 37 37 or request a consultation online at echelonpartywall.co.uk.
Related Services
FAQs About Party Wall Awards
Q: Is a Party Wall Award the same as a Party Wall Notice?
No. A Notice is the document you serve to start the process. An Award is the legally binding decision produced by surveyor(s) if there is a dispute.
Q: Can I start work without an Award?
Not if your neighbour dissents or does not reply. Starting without an Award can lead to injunctions and legal action.
Q: Who pays for the Party Wall Award?
Normally the building owner pays all reasonable fees. Exceptions apply in unusual circumstances.
Conclusion
A Party Wall Award is not a barrier. It is a protection mechanism that ensures your project is safe, compliant, and neighbourly. With expert support from Echelon, you can move forward with confidence.