Cost of surveyor?

[StillRunningWithScissors]

Hello,
We are getting together our letters etc for party wall agreements with our neighbours.
It states we should suggest a surveyor in case of dispute.

I asked on a local chat board for recommendations (only received one reply), contacted the company and they've replied that they are happy to have us name them, and the fee is £150/hr.

We are in the south east, so know prices will be higher, but wondering if this is about average pricing, or higher than average?

And feedback is appreciated. Thanks!

I'd be a bit worried about paying on a hourly rate, but if this is all they offer I'd make sure you cap the cost in your engagement letter.

As an hourly rate I don't think it sounds unreasonable.

I agree dancing, the hourly rate does worry me. On the plus side, it's only in the event of a dispute, and our neighbours have been quite receptive to our plans/ no complaints at planning stage.

I appreciate the reply.

They won't be able to cap it because the service is a "how long is a piece of string" service. It may be a simple dispute that happens which can be quickly settled (in a couple of hours) or it may be lengthy and drawn out.

£150 p/h is on the cheaper side for your area.

Fingers crossed there'll be no issues.

Thanks allthebest, I agree that it isn't an option to "cap" the work/fees. Good to know the rate is reasonable.

Now, here's hoping we don't need to use them :-)