Why a Party Wall Surveyor and Insurance Are Essential Before Starting Works. The advice from our partner NGA

When planning a home renovation, extension, or any construction project that adjoins a neighbouring property, it’s easy to get caught up in design details and building schedules. This is why we have our partner, Natalia Giacomino Architects (NGA), to advise us on what needs to be worked out. Before the first brick is laid, two critical steps must be addressed: appointing a Party Wall Surveyor and securing the right insurance. These measures are not just bureaucratic hurdles; they are essential safeguards for your property, your neighbour’s property, and the smooth running of your project.

The Importance of a Party Wall Surveyor

A Party Wall Surveyor is a professional appointed under the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 to manage the relationship between neighbours during building works that affect shared walls, boundaries, or excavations close to neighbouring structures. Their role is to ensure that both parties are protected and that the project complies with the law.

Why you should appoint one early:

• Avoid disputes: A surveyor ensures neighbours are formally notified before works begin, reducing the risk of misunderstandings or legal disputes.

• Protect property: By preparing a detailed Party Wall Award, the surveyor records the condition of walls and structures, preventing false claims of damage during construction.

• Keep projects on track: Resolving boundary issues before work starts avoids costly delays that can derail your schedule.

• Ensure legal compliance: Certain works, such as underpinning, loft conversions, or extensions near a shared wall, require compliance with the Party Wall Act. Ignoring this can lead to legal consequences and project stoppages.

By appointing a surveyor at the outset, you protect yourself legally and financially while maintaining positive neighbourly relations.

Why You Need Insurance Before Starting Work

Insurance is the second pillar of risk management in construction. Even with careful planning, building work carries inherent risks. Securing appropriate insurance before work begins ensures that you and your contractor are protected from day one.

Key reasons insurance is essential:

• Risk mitigation: Construction sites are unpredictable. Insurance provides immediate protection against accidents, damage, or unforeseen events.

• Financial security: If damage occurs to your property, your neighbour’s property, or even third parties, insurance ensures you are not left with crippling costs.

• Legal and contractual compliance: Many lenders, councils, and even party wall agreements require proof of insurance before work can commence. Without it, your project may face delays or legal challenges.

Common policies include public liability insurance, contractor all risks insurance, and professional indemnity insurance, each covering different aspects of potential risk.

Conclusion

Starting your renovation with a Party Wall Surveyor in place and insurance coverage secured is not just a legal formality. It is a crucial step to protect your property, maintain neighbourly relations, and safeguard your investment. Skipping these measures can result in costly disputes, project delays, and unnecessary stress.

NGA believes that successful projects begin with strong foundations, not just in bricks and mortar, but in compliance and protection. By addressing these requirements early, you ensure a smooth, safe, and legally sound construction process from day one.

Give a look at our partner NGA on their website below: https://www.ngaandpartners.com/