Schedule of Condition Surveys in London – Why They're Essential
Hourican & Associates Ltd |
Protect your property and avoid disputes with professional Schedule of Condition Surveys by Chartered Surveyors in London.
If you're planning building works in London—such as a loft conversion or basement excavation—it's critical to record the condition of neighbouring properties before starting. This is done through a Schedule of Condition Survey, a key step in avoiding future disputes.
What is a Schedule of Condition Survey?
A Schedule of Condition Survey is a detailed photographic and written record of a property’s condition before construction works begin. It protects both parties from disputes and is often included in Party Wall Awards.
Legal Context: Party Wall etc. Act 1996
While not legally required, a Schedule of Condition is recommended under the Party Wall etc. Act 1996. Section 7(2) holds the building owner responsible for compensating any damage caused—so a pre-works record is vital.
Supporting Data and Insight
When Should You Arrange One?
Schedule of Condition Surveys are recommended before:
- Loft conversions or chimney removals
- Basement excavations or rear extensions
- Works affecting shared or party walls
- Excavations within 3 or 6 metres of neighbouring foundations
Cost of a Schedule of Condition Survey in London
Our fixed fee: £585 + VAT. This includes:
- Site visit by a qualified surveyor
- Photographic and written report
- Digital PDF and hard copy on request
- Fast 2–3 day delivery
Who Pays?
Under the Act, the Building Owner pays all “reasonable costs”, including the Schedule of Condition Survey. The Adjoining Owner does not contribute.
What’s in the Report?
- Time-stamped photos of internal and external areas
- Written notes on walls, ceilings, boundaries
- Annotations highlighting existing cracks or defects
Areas We Cover
We operate across London, including:
- North: Camden, Islington, Barnet
- East: Hackney, Tower Hamlets, Stratford
- South: Clapham, Wandsworth, Dulwich
- West: Fulham, Kensington, Chiswick
Why Choose Hourican Associates?
- Regulated by RICS, CIOB, MCABE & FPWS
- Chartered Party Wall Surveyors with London expertise
- Fixed pricing & fast turnaround
- Legal-grade documentation
FAQs – Schedule of Condition Surveys in London
Need a Schedule of Condition Survey in London?
At Hourican Associates, our chartered party wall surveyors deliver accurate, photographic Schedule of Condition Reports to protect you and your neighbours before works begin.
We operate across London, including Fulham, Chiswick, Chelsea, Camden, Islington, and all surrounding boroughs.
Order your schedule of condition surveyDisclaimer: All quotes are indicative and based on project-specific factors such as property size, access, and location. Schedule of Condition Surveys are strongly advised for most works under the Party Wall etc. Act 1996. For tailored legal guidance, please book a formal consultation with a qualified surveyor.

Richard Hourican, Company Director
BSc (Hons). HND Build. MCIOB. C.Build E MCABE. ARICS. MFPWS. MPTS
As a specialist Party Wall surveyor, Richard Hourican will protect your interests during building works.
Are you planning a building project – perhaps an extension, loft conversion or basement – that is on or adjacent to your property’s boundary line? Or has a ‘Party Wall’ notice dropped on the doormat informing you of a neighbour’s impending works?
It’s essential to understand all the implications of building plans. If you don’t, it could cost thousands. Our job is to ensure everything is done correctly – and that it doesn’t!
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