The parts to check
The description of the work. Does it match what you understood from your neighbour and the notice?
The schedule of condition. Check it carefully against your home. Are existing cracks and defects recorded accurately? If something important is missing, tell the surveyor straight away.
Protection measures. Look for dust sheets, weatherproofing, temporary support and protection to your garden.
Working hours. Note the permitted times so you know what is acceptable.
Access. Does the award allow the builder onto your land? If so, when and on what terms?
Damage. How will damage be dealt with, and how do you report it?
Costs. Confirm who is paying the surveyors' fees.
If something looks wrong
Raise it with your surveyor, or the agreed surveyor, promptly. A factual error in the schedule can often be corrected. A fundamental disagreement may need an appeal, which must be made within 14 days. See appealing an award.
Keep it
File the award with your property documents. If you sell before the work is finished, your buyer will want to see it.
Where this comes from in the Act
Links go to the official text of the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 on legislation.gov.uk.