It depends on the project, how much information is available to the surveyor(s) and how quickly other parties respond. But below is an example of a typical timeline for a straightforward project such as a loft conversion or extension.
Party Wall Timeline
1. Initial Contact and Agreement
Day 1-2: Initial Contact
Discuss the project with the adjoining owner(s).
Explain the need for a Party Wall Agreement.
Day 3-5: Notice Preparation
Prepare and draft the Party Wall Notice(s).
Day 5-7: Notice Service
Serve the Party Wall Notice(s) to the adjoining owner(s) via post or hand delivery.
Allow at least 14 days for a response.
2. Response from Adjoining Owner(s)
Day 15-20: Adjoining Owner’s Response
If the adjoining owner(s) consents: proceed to work.
If the adjoining owner(s) dissent or do not respond: proceed to appoint a surveyor.
3. Surveyor Appointment
Day 21-28: Appointment of Surveyor(s)
If there’s a dissent, appoint a single agreed surveyor or separate surveyors for each party.
Surveyors schedule a site visit to assess the situation.
4. Schedule of Condition
Day 29-35: Surveyor Site Visit
Surveyor(s) visit the site and prepare a Schedule of Condition report for the adjoining property.
Day 36-42: Review of Condition Report
Review the Schedule of Condition with the client and adjoining owner(s) for accuracy.
5. Drafting and Serving the Party Wall Award
Day 43-50: Drafting the Party Wall Award
Surveyor(s) draft the Party Wall Award outlining the rights and responsibilities of both parties.
Day 51-55: Serve the Party Wall Award
The Award is served to both the building owner and adjoining owner(s).
There is a 14-day period in which the Award can be appealed.
6. Starting Work
Day 56-60: Final Preparations
Ensure all parties are in agreement.
Prepare for construction work to commence.
Day 61+: Commence Construction Work
Begin construction work as per the agreed Party Wall Award.
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