Using a qualified and regulated surveyor is essential to receiving a reliable and accurate property survey. You can check the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) and Residential Property Surveyors Association (RPSA) websites to confirm your surveyor's qualification. These are the two main regulatory bodies for surveying in the UK and their directories will include all surveying firms that are members.
RICS ensures all members adhere to their professional ethics and standards and is well-known nationally. All RICS-qualified surveyors will have AssocRICS, MRICS, or FRICS after their names.
Below we look at how to find out if a surveyor is qualified and what to look out for when hiring a professional.
Types of Surveyors and their Qualifications
Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) regulated surveyors can earn their qualifications via an apprenticeship, university degree, postgraduate conversion course or a graduate scheme.
Residential Property Surveyors Association (RPSA) surveyors must have a BSc in Building Surveying (DipHI or DipRSurv qualifications). If a surveyor is a member of RICS, the Chartered Association of Building Engineers (CABE) or the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) this also enables them to join RPSA.
There will also be regulations and specialist qualifications for different types of surveyors:
Residential Surveyor
Residential surveyors are the most common type of surveying professionals that homebuyers and homeowners will encounter. They are usually regulated by RICS or RPSA. All chartered surveyors also require completion of the Assessment of Professional Competence (APC).
Building Surveyor
Building surveyors are also regulated by RICS or the RPSA. They typically require a relevant degree accredited by RICS to qualify as a building surveyor. They will also need to complete a period of structured training and pass the Assessment of Professional Competence (APC).
Snagging Surveyor
There are currently no specific qualifications to become a snagging surveyor. However, you should look out for a surveyor who has a NVQ in The Built Environment. You can also check if they are a member of the Chartered Institute of Building (CIB) or the Chartered Association of Building Engineers (CABE).
Party Wall Surveyor
Party Wall Surveyors are qualified via training courses from the Institute of Party Wall Surveyors (IPWS). They can then apply to be a member of IPWS or the Faculty of Party Wall Surveyors (FPWS). They can also apply to be RICS or RPSA-registered.
Land Surveyor
Land Surveyors, or Geomatic Surveyors, specialise in mapping and measuring. They often work on land development or map making. They require a degree in geomatics, surveying or civil engineering. Land Surveyors must also obtain professional recognition via RICS or the Chartered Institution of Civil Engineering Surveyors (CICES).
Quantity Surveyor
Quantity Surveyors work around finances in the construction industry. Typically they will need a degree in quantity surveying. They require RICS membership and completion of APC to gain chartered status.
Environmental Surveyor
Environmental surveyors require degrees in relevant fields. Examples include environmental engineering, environmental studies or environmental science. Employers may require that this is RICS-accredited.
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What to Check Before Hiring a Surveyor
There are several things you should check before hiring a surveyor. As they play a crucial role in your property journey, you must find the right fit for the home being surveyed. Completing these checks ensures you find a surveyor that fits your needs and budget.
During your search, you should consider:
Are they regulated by RICS or RPSA?
If they are RICS-regulated, are they AssocRICS, MRICS or FRICS?
How much experience do they have?
Are they experienced in your type of property?
Are positive reviews consistent on their website and online?
Are the contact details up to date on their website?
Do they have local knowledge of the area?
Are they recommended by family, friends or colleagues?
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Surveyor Red Flags
Below are a few of the key things that should raise alarm bells when looking for a surveyor:
They are vague about their qualifications or experience
The information they provide is inconsistent
They are not regulated by an organisation such as RICS or RPSA
They have poor reviews
They are difficult to contact or don't maintain contact
Their quotes changes without a satisfactory explanation
Choosing a Qualified Surveyor
Organising a survey is a key part of the home-buying process. It can give you peace of mind about the home and their expert advice can prepare you for any work required.
When it comes to choosing a qualified surveyor, the checks above can help ensure you find the best professional for your needs. Additionally, comparing surveying firms in your local area allows you to find the best service and price for you.
At Compare My Move, we can match you with up to 6 surveying professionals. We put you directly in touch with the experts, allowing you to discuss your needs and budget. You can also find out more about their qualifications and experience.
Surveyors joining our networking must pass our strict verification process. Rest assured all of our surveying partners offering Level 2 and Level 3 surveys are RICS-registered. Those offering New Build Snagging Surveys can be either RPSA or RICS-regulated.
