Who pays for the fees of a party wall?

In most cases, the building owner initiating the construction project is responsible for paying the fees related to a Party Wall Agreement. This includes covering the cost of appointing one or more surveyors, preparing the Party Wall Award, and any related inspections or reports.

The rationale behind this is that the building owner’s work is what triggers the need for a party wall agreement and survey. Even if the adjoining owner appoints their own surveyor, the costs are typically still covered by the building owner, unless the neighbour requests unreasonable modifications or delays the process.

However, in certain situations, costs can be shared or adjusted. For example, if the adjoining owner benefits from the construction work—such as when a shared wall is improved or repaired as part of the project—then the surveyor may recommend that both parties share some of the costs.

Additionally, if the adjoining owner causes delays or disputes that lead to additional surveyor work, they may be responsible for a portion of the fees. Ultimately, the Party Wall Award will clarify how the fees are distributed, ensuring transparency and fairness in covering the costs.