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Advantages of using an agreed Surveyor
Monday 12th May 2025
What Are the Benefits of Using an Agreed Surveyor?
When dealing with construction work near or on a shared boundary, the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 requires that the interests of both the building owner and the adjoining owner are protected. One way to manage this is through the appointment of an agreed surveyor—a single professional who acts impartially for both parties. While some owners may be apprehensive about this arrangement, there are numerous benefits to consider, both immediate and long-term.
Benefits for the Building Owner
1. Reduced Costs
The building owner is typically responsible for surveyor fees under the Act. By appointing an agreed surveyor rather than two separate ones, there is usually a considerable saving in professional costs.
2. Simplified Process
One surveyor managing the matter reduces the risk of miscommunication, conflict between surveyors, or delays due to scheduling difficulties. It also ensures consistency in interpreting the scope and impact of the proposed works.
3. Faster Resolutions
With fewer parties involved, the party wall process is often concluded more quickly, allowing the building owner to proceed with their programme of works without unnecessary delay.
Benefits for the Adjoining Owner
1. Impartial Representation
Contrary to misconception, the agreed surveyor does not act on behalf of the building owner alone. Their statutory duty is to act independently and impartially for both parties, ensuring fair and reasonable decisions are made.
2. Professional Guidance Without Cost
The adjoining owner receives the benefit of professional advice, inspections, and award documentation without having to appoint and fund their own surveyor.
3. Confidence in Expertise
Where the agreed surveyor is a seasoned professional, the adjoining owner can feel assured that all relevant matters—technical and legal—are being properly considered.
Ensuring Impartiality: Trust Through Credentials
Understandably, adjoining owners may worry whether an agreed surveyor will truly act impartially. A few indicators can help to reassure both parties:
• Accreditations and Oversight Roles: Surveyors such as Carl O’Boyle of Tayross Chartered Building Surveyors bring a high level of credibility to the role. Not only is Mr O’Boyle professionally accredited, but he also serves on various disciplinary boards—highlighting a longstanding commitment to integrity, professionalism, and impartiality.
• Depth of Experience: With over 30 years in the construction and surveying industry, Carl O’Boyle brings far more to the table than mere party wall advice. His broad knowledge of building pathology, construction methods, and dispute resolution enables him to deal effectively with a wide range of scenarios, from straightforward extensions to complex structural alterations.
• Request a Profile: For those considering appointing Mr O’Boyle as an agreed surveyor, a professional profile is available upon request and can be sent directly for review. Please email carl@tayross.com to request further details.
Long-Term Advantages for Both Parties
Appointing an agreed surveyor not only resolves the current matter efficiently but can also establish a precedent of cooperation between neighbours. If in the future the adjoining owner wishes to carry out their own works, having a trusted agreed surveyor already known to both parties can:
• Reduce overall costs by avoiding the need for separate surveyors
• Prevent unnecessary disputes or misunderstandings
• Allow for clearer, more open communication
• Speed up the party wall process for all concerned
In short, an agreed surveyor trusted by all parties helps foster goodwill and makes future projects smoother and more cost-effective.
Conclusion
While appointing separate surveyors is sometimes appropriate—particularly where relations are strained or works are complex—the appointment of an experienced and impartial agreed surveyor offers considerable benefits. In the hands of a seasoned professional like Carl O’Boyle, with decades of experience and a reputation for balanced judgement, both the building and adjoining owners can proceed with confidence.
To discuss your project or request a professional profile, please contact Carl directly at carl@tayross.com.
