The short answer
You are far more likely to get your neighbour to accept one agreed surveyor if you approach it fairly, explain the surveyor’s impartial role and address concerns early — never by pressure. An agreed surveyor only works if the adjoining owner trusts the process.
Why it matters
An agreed surveyor is cheaper, quicker and less confrontational, but the neighbour must understand they keep their protection. Make clear the surveyor does not act for you personally, must be impartial, that the award binds both owners, and that damage caused by the works can still be addressed. Early transparency reduces suspicion; overselling your preferred surveyor makes neighbours defensive.
What to do now
- Speak to the neighbour before formal notices arrive — explain the work, why the Act applies, the timing, and what protection they keep.
- Stress the surveyor’s impartial, statutory role and that the award is binding on both.
- Offer practical reassurance: a schedule of condition, contractor rules, advance notice of noisy stages, contact details, and a promise to make good damage.
- Acknowledge their right to appoint their own surveyor, while explaining why one is usually better.
Common mistakes
- Pressuring the neighbour or implying your surveyor is the only acceptable choice.
- Failing to explain that an agreed surveyor must be impartial.
- Ignoring practical worries such as cracking, noise, pets, elderly relatives or home working.
- Making promises, then not briefing the contractor to keep them.
When to call Coburns
If you would like to offer your neighbour a genuinely impartial agreed surveyor, get in touch and we will explain the role to them clearly and keep the process fair.