A lot goes on behind the scenes before you can build a wall to separate your property or do building works near your property’s boundaries. But let’s address the elephant in the room before going any further. The 1996 Party Wall Act regulates excavations and construction works near neighbouring properties.
This Act’s primary purpose is to set guidelines and prevent future misunderstandings between you and your neighbour. Now, if you are in Essex and plan to build a wall or do some repair work near your property’s boundary, hiring a party wall surveyor must be at the top of your list.
In this guide are top tips on what to consider when looking for party wall surveyors in Essex.
Qualifications and Experience
Qualifications and experience will play a massive role when hiring a party wall surveyor in Essex. Experienced surveyors will bring more value to the table, which is crucial when handling complex projects. Their knowledge of the law and dispute resolution skills will ensure that you and your neighbour are satisfied with the party wall award.
Look for top experts registered with professional bodies like the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors. This is a sign that the expert is committed to maintaining their professional standing. We also recommend hiring a surveyor who is conversant with Essex’s local building regulations.
Communication Skills
Clear communication will help you and your neighbour come to an understanding quicker. You want to hire a party wall surveyor from Essex who is an excellent communicator and can get matters across in an easy-to-understand way.
You can learn about the surveyor’s professionalism and work ethic by reading reviews and testimonials from previous clients. Look for someone who is patient, approachable, and fosters a collaborative environment. This will make the discussions about your project with your neighbours fast and efficient.
Fees vs. Your Budget
Party wall surveyor’s fees will vary depending on various factors. The best approach is to always get quotes from various experts. Take time and analyse each quote against the value offered before deciding which surveyor to pick.
Some surveyors offer fixed-fee packages for standard projects, while others charge hourly rates. During the first consultation meeting, be upfront with your budget. Also, ask for a contract detailing all of the fees, payment plans, and miscellaneous charges that may pop up during the project.
This will help you avoid misunderstandings with the party wall surveyor during the project.
Where Can You Find Party Wall Surveyors in Essex?
Recommendations from friends are excellent if you know anyone who has used a party wall surveyor for their project. However, you can also get quality leads from the internet. For instance, if you search ‘party wall surveyors in Essex,’ you will find links to websites and online profiles of leading party wall experts from Essex and nearby cities.
As mentioned before, read the reviews from other customers before making up your mind. Also, don’t forget to schedule a meeting with potential picks before hiring them. This meeting will help you judge the professionals and see if they are the perfect fit.
