Party wall

KS_14

Hi All,

We are planning to extend our home(semi-det 1930's build London) at the rear and proceeding with planning permission & building reg. I have a query on party wall.

We did mention about our plans to our neighbors prior to filling the council application but nothing about party wall as I wasn't fully aware then and was thinking to discuss it after the approval. I was wrong, as soon as I filed the application, somehow the party wall surveyors send a letter to neighbors asking to choose them as their representative. One of our neighbor came home with the notice and said they are not interested with service and happy with our work as long as we follow the council norms. However, the other neighbor, with whom we share party wall, signed up with a party wall surveyor who had sent them a letter. On inquiry I was given to understand they charge £1200 for the below service
Prepare and serve notice
Verify and accept appointment from Adjoining Owner and Building Owner
Land registry searches on all parties
Inspect Drawings
Prepare Draft Award
Arrange site visit (neighbour’s property)
Undertake survey of neighbour’s property
Write up survey and upload photographs
Compile Award, Drawings, survey and photos
Prepare invoice and send to Building Owner
Sign and dispatch Awards
Final inspection to check property after works complete and final correspondence

I did have a word with this neighbor and they seem keen to avail the service as the property is 1930's which is understandable.

As its a considerable amount and we weren't prepared for it,
1. is this a nominal price
2. is there any way we can avoid / reduce this service to cost less

At the end of the day, we want all to go well with our building extension and also with our neighbors.

BTW, I did try RICS free helpline but I'm put on hold indefinitely.

Any suggestions would be helpful.

Sorry for the long post!

Thanks

paddedjohn

You will probably find this thread from a few days ago useful.


https://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/discussion/2883974