A Building Surveyor is generally considered to have one of the broadest yet most specialised skill sets in surveying, giving them the ideal perspective when strategically advising clients on their property assets.

Building Surveyors work in most real estate markets; residential, commercial, industrial and retail to name a few. Typically, Building Surveyors are employed by a range of companies including property consultancies, public organisations and private clients.

What does a Building Surveyor job description look like?

Building Surveyors are required to work closely with a range of other professionals including Architects, Planners, Quantity Surveyors and Engineers. Therefore, when considering the skills that Building Surveyors need – strong people and communication skills are a must.

Building Surveyor Responsibilities – Services that Building Surveyors undertake are broad but can include:

• Construction design and building works
• Project management and monitoring
• Property Legislation advice
• Insurance assessment and claims assistance
• Defect investigation and maintenance advice
• Building surveys and measured surveys
• Produce specifications
• Handling planning applications
• Building inspection to ensure compliance with building regulations or CDM
• Pre-acquisition surveys
• Advising and negotiating on dilapidations issues
• Providing guidance and advice on the Party Wall Etc Act 1996

Building Surveyors also advise on many aspects of construction including:

• Design
• Cost
• Maintenance
• Sustainability
• Repair
• Refurbishment
• Restoration and preservation of buildings and monuments

What qualifications do Building Surveyor jobs require? 

It is usual for building surveyors to earn a university degree before undertaking structured training and to become a member of a professional organisation.

RICS (Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors) is the most recognised regulatory body for Building Surveyors. To become a Chartered Building Surveyor, prospective candidates are required to earn a RICS accredited degree and complete their APC (Assessment of Professional Competence). This requires a minimum of 2 years structured training, but Building Surveyors with 5 – 10 years practical experience (degree dependent) are also eligible to become Chartered.

Chartered Building Surveyors are then supported by the RICS (Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors) which ensures that its members (denoted MRICS) always provide impartial and professional advice.

Demand in the UK for Building Surveyors is extremely strong with a number of opportunities available. We have recently assisted Building Surveyors from graduate to Associate Director level and work with a broad range of clients.

If you are looking to start your building surveying career, or looking to progress your career with a new company please do not hesitate to contact us.


View our Building Surveyor job opportunities


Author: Andy Lambert


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