Party Wall Agreement Timeline & Process

Tom Norris
Sep 7
3 min read

Updated: Sep 8

How Long Does It Take, and What Happens at Each Stage?

Introduction

If you’re planning a loft conversion in Clapham, an extension in Surrey, or a basement excavation in Kensington, one of the first questions you’ll ask is:

“How long does a Party Wall Agreement take?”

The Party Wall etc. Act 1996 sets clear timelines for notices, responses, surveyor appointments, and awards. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the entire process step by step, including timeframes and tips to avoid delays.

Quick Snapshot: Typical Party Wall Timeline

Step	What Happens	Typical Timeframe
Serve Party Wall Notice	Notify all adjoining owners of your plans.	At least 2 months before work starts
Neighbour Response	Neighbours have 14 days to consent or dissent.	2 weeks
Appoint Surveyor(s)	If dissent or no response, surveyors are appointed.	1–2 weeks
Schedule of Condition	Surveyors inspect and document the neighbour’s property.	1–2 weeks
Party Wall Award Issued	Binding document setting out rights & protections.	2–6 weeks
Start Work	You can begin safely, following the Award.	Varies

Average straightforward projects take 6–8 weeks from notice to Award. Complex builds (basements, multi-unit properties) can take longer.

Step-by-Step: The Full Party Wall Process

1. Serve a Party Wall Notice

You (or your surveyor) must serve notices at least two months before structural work or one month before excavation.

Notices include full details of your proposed work.
Errors in notices are common and restart the clock, so many homeowners use a surveyor.

2. Wait for Neighbour Response (14 Days)

Neighbours can:

Consent in Writing: No formal award needed, but we recommend a Schedule of Condition for protection.
Dissent: Triggers the formal process; surveyors are appointed.
Ignore: Silence after 14 days is legally treated as dissent.

3. Appoint Surveyor(s)

One Agreed Surveyor: Both parties share a single impartial surveyor (cheaper and faster).
Two Surveyors: Each owner appoints their own; a third surveyor is nominated in case of disputes.

This stage typically takes 1–2 weeks.

4. Schedule of Condition

Surveyors conduct a detailed photographic and written survey of your neighbour’s property to record its condition before work begins.

Protects you from false damage claims.
Gives neighbours reassurance.Takes 1–2 weeks.

5. Party Wall Award Issued

Surveyors draft a legally binding Award that:

Confirms your right to carry out works.
Specifies protective measures (vibration monitoring, scaffolding, etc.).
Sets timelines and working hours.
Outlines how disputes or damage will be resolved.Once signed, you can begin work.

6. Start Construction

With the Award in place, you have legal permission to start building, knowing your rights and responsibilities are documented.

How Long Does Each Stage Really Take?

Project Type	Typical Timeline
Loft Conversion (1 neighbour)	6 weeks
Rear Extension (2 neighbours)	6–8 weeks
Basement Dig (3+ neighbours)	10–12 weeks
Multi-Unit or Listed Building	3+ months

Tips to Avoid Delays

Hire Early: Appoint a surveyor as soon as you have plans.
Serve Notices Promptly: The 2-month notice period is fixed by law.
Talk to Neighbours First: Early communication often speeds up consent.
Choose an Agreed Surveyor: Faster and cheaper than using two surveyors.
Provide Clear Drawings: The more detailed your plans, the smoother the process.

Why the Process Is Worth It

Some homeowners see the Party Wall process as red tape, but it’s your insurance policy:

Prevents disputes before they escalate.
Protects you from damage claims.
Provides peace of mind for neighbours.
Keeps your project legal and enforceable.

Example Scenario:

A homeowner in Balham planned a loft conversion. MET Surveyors:

Served notices to two neighbours.
One consented, one dissented.
Appointed as Agreed Surveyor, conducted a Schedule of Condition, and issued an Award.Timeline: 6 weeks from first notice to Award; project started on time.

FAQs

Q: Can I start work before the Award is finalised? No, you must wait for the Award to be served.

Q: What if my neighbour doesn’t respond? Silence counts as dissent; a surveyor will be appointed on their behalf.

Q: How long does a neighbour have to appoint a surveyor? If they don’t act within 10 days of being asked, you can appoint one for them.

Why Choose MET Surveyors for a Smooth Process

Speed: We draft notices and issue Awards quickly to keep projects moving.
Expertise: Decades of experience in London boroughs and Home Counties.
Fixed Pricing: Transparent fees with no surprises.
Neighbour-Focused: Our impartial approach keeps relationships positive.

Get Started Today

Whether you’re planning a rear extension in Surrey, a loft conversion in Streatham, or a basement in Chelsea, MET Surveyors will:

Serve accurate notices.
Handle all surveyor appointments.
Deliver a legally binding Party Wall Award quickly.

Book a Callback: Speak to a Party Wall expert today. We proudly serve all London boroughs and Home Counties: Surrey, Essex, Hertfordshire, Kent, Berkshire, and more.