The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) has opened a consultation on the draft 8th edition of its Party Wall Legislation and Procedure guidance, inviting input from surveyors, legal professionals, dispute resolution practitioners, and other stakeholders involved in party wall matters in England and Wales. The consultation will run for approximately eight weeks across April and May and seeks feedback on updated practice guidance aimed at promoting competence and consistency in this area of professional work.

The draft 8th edition replaces the 7th edition and provides best-practice guidance for RICS members working under the Party Wall etc. Act 1996. It outlines when the Act applies, the procedures to follow, and the professional standards expected of surveyors.

Updates in the draft include enhanced appendices, revised letters of appointment and terms, and a refreshed draft award. Guidance on regulatory and conduct matters has also been strengthened, covering fee practices, the use of the Third Surveyor, service of notices, and public engagement.

RICS emphasises that clarity and professional rigour are critical. The draft guidance reinforces that a party wall surveyor’s appointment is statutory and personal, independent of client instruction, and highlights risks in cases where awards have been challenged because surveyors acted outside their jurisdiction, including situations where no genuine dispute existed between the parties.