Schedule of Condition Surveys in London – Why They're Essential

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Schedule of Condition Surveys in London – Why They're Essential

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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

  • 80% of London housing is terraced, semi-detached or flats — all likely to share boundaries. (GLA 2022)
  • Disputes over damage from works are among the most common neighbour conflicts post-construction. (FPWS)
  • Most Party Wall Awards in London include a Schedule of Condition as standard practice.

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

No, but it is strongly advised. Most party wall surveyors include one as part of the Party Wall Award to prevent future disputes over damage.

We charge a fixed fee of £585 + VAT, which includes inspection, photography, report preparation and delivery.

The Building Owner pays, as part of their responsibility under the Party Wall etc. Act 1996.

Before any construction works begin, ideally after a Party Wall Notice has been served but before machinery or contractors start work.

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 survey

Disclaimer: 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. Specialist Party Wall surveyor, London

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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