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Should I Dissent and Appoint My Own Surveyor or Have an Agreed Surveyor?
Friday 12th July 2024
Introduction:
When it comes to party wall matters, one important decision you may face is whether to dissent and appoint your own surveyor or have an agreed surveyor with your neighbour. In this blog post, we will explore the pros and cons of each option to help you make an informed choice.
1. Dissenting and Appointing Your Own Surveyor:
If you decide to dissent and appoint your own surveyor, you have the advantage of having someone solely looking out for your interests. Here are some key points to consider:
- Independence: By appointing your own surveyor, you can ensure that your rights and concerns are represented independently. Your surveyor will have a legal obligation to act in your best interests and protect your property.
- Expertise: A surveyor appointed by you will have the expertise and experience to assess the proposed works thoroughly. They can provide you with professional advice, evaluate any potential risks, and help negotiate the best possible terms on your behalf.
- Control: Having your own surveyor gives you more control over the process. You can actively participate in the decision-making and have a direct line of communication with your surveyor to address any questions or concerns that may arise.
2. Having an Agreed Surveyor:
Alternatively, you and your neighbour may agree to appoint a single surveyor to act on behalf of both parties. Here are some considerations for this option:
- Cost-saving: Having an agreed surveyor may result in cost savings, as both parties share the same surveyor, the building owner doing the works does not need to pay for another independent surveyor for the adjoining owner.
- Streamlined Process: With an agreed surveyor, the process can be more streamlined and efficient. There is no need for separate negotiations or conflicting advice from multiple surveyors, as the agreed surveyor works in the best interests of both parties.
- Neighbourly Relations: Opting for an agreed surveyor can help maintain a positive relationship with your neighbour. It shows a willingness to cooperate and find common ground, which can be beneficial for future interactions.
Conclusion:
Deciding whether to dissent and appoint your own surveyor or have an agreed surveyor is a crucial choice in party wall matters. It ultimately depends on the specific circumstances of your situation, the complexity of the proposed works, and your relationship with your neighbour.
Appointing your own surveyor provides an independent advocate solely focused on your best interests, while having an agreed surveyor can lead to cost savings, a streamlined process and better neighbourly relations.
