Quick answer: Written consent is an adjoining owner’s agreement to the notified work, sometimes with agreed conditions. A party wall award is a statutory document settled by appointed surveyor or surveyors after a dispute has arisen. The phrase ‘party wall agreement’ is often used loosely and should be clarified.
This article concerns England and Wales. It provides general information, not legal advice. The application of the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 depends on the facts, ownership and proposed work.
Written consent
An adjoining owner can consent to a valid notice. Owners may record practical undertakings, but should understand whether these are simple consent conditions or a separate private agreement.
A statutory award
An award can describe the authorised work, working methods, access, protection, timing, costs, compensation and procedures for dealing with damage. It does not grant planning permission or determine every boundary/title issue.
Why terminology matters
Calling every document an ‘agreement’ can obscure legal status, appeal rights and enforcement routes. Ask whether surveyors have been appointed under section 10 and whether the document is intended to be an award.
Appeal period
A party dissatisfied with an award may appeal to the county court within the statutory period, commonly 14 days from service. Urgent legal advice is sensible before any deadline expires.
Frequently asked questions
Is consent always the cheapest option?
Often, but only where the owner understands the works and adequate safeguards are agreed.
Can an award decide ownership of land?
Surveyors have limited jurisdiction and generally cannot conclusively determine unrelated title or boundary disputes.
Authoritative sources and further help
Read the official GOV.UK explanatory booklet and the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 on legislation.gov.uk. For the wider process see our building owners guide, adjoining owners guide and notice guidance.
Reviewed: 16 July 2026. Seek advice from a suitably experienced party wall surveyor or solicitor where the facts or legal position are disputed.