Richard Hourican | Company Director & Party Wall Expert (London)

Richard Hourican is the Company Director at Hourican Associates, a Chartered Building Consultancy specialising in Party Wall matters across London. With over 25 years’ experience as a Chartered Surveyor, Richard supports clients through the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 process with a clear, practical approach that prioritises compliance, programme certainty, and neighbourly outcomes.

Credentials & professional memberships

Richard’s qualifications and memberships reflect a career built around technical building knowledge, professional standards, and specialist Party Wall practice:

• BSc (Hons) – Bachelor of Science with Honours, reflecting advanced academic study in the built environment.
• HND Build – Higher National Diploma in Building, a practical, construction-focused qualification.
• OND Build – Ordinary National Diploma in Building, establishing a strong technical foundation in construction.
• MCIOB – Member of the Chartered Institute of Building, demonstrating competence in construction management and professional conduct.
• C.Build E MCABE – Chartered Building Engineer and Member of the Chartered Association of Building Engineers, supporting professional building consultancy practice.
• ARICS – Associate of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors, aligned with recognised surveying standards and ethics.
• MFPWS – Member/Fellow-grade membership of the Faculty of Party Wall Surveyors, evidencing specialist focus in Party Wall work.
• MPTS – Member of The Pyramus & Thisbe Club, a respected specialist forum dedicated to Party Wall practice.

Note: Membership designations can change over time; the above reflects Richard’s stated credentials and professional affiliations.

Experience that fits complex London builds

Richard’s background includes major development projects and formal project management experience, which means he’s comfortable working alongside architects, engineers, contractors, and client teams on demanding programmes. Whether the works involve a rear extension, loft conversion, basement excavation, or structural alterations to a party structure, Richard focuses on robust procedure and clear documentation to reduce risk and prevent disputes escalating.

How Richard helps clients

• Strategic Party Wall guidance aligned with design, sequencing, and buildability.
• Dispute prevention through clarity of notices, early engagement, and thorough records.
• Practical solutions that balance Building Owner needs with Adjoining Owner protections.
• Quality control mindset influenced by decades of surveying and project delivery.

A calm, professional approach

Richard is known for being measured and straightforward. Clients appreciate a process that feels organised, predictable, and responsive—especially where neighbours are understandably cautious about noise, dust, movement risk, or access arrangements.

Outside the office

When Richard isn’t working on projects, he’s a committed rugby fan—an interest that mirrors his professional style: disciplined, team-focused, and resilient under pressure.

FAQs