If you have bought a property, chances are, you have thought about having a survey carried out to assess the property. This is a smart decision. Properties are an expensive investment and anything you can do to protect your investment will save you money, whether this means you don’t buy it or you renegotiate the price based on the survey results.
While looking into surveyors, you may have heard the term ‘RICS Surveyor’. But what is an RICS surveyor and why are they important? There are lots of RICS surveyors out there – including us – so in this article, we’re going to discuss RICS surveyors and why it is important to hire one.
What is the RICS?
The RICS (Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors) is a professional body, established in 1868, that represents and regulates property professionals in the UK and around the world. To become an RICS surveyor, individuals must complete stringent education and experience requirements and abide by strict RICS Rules of Conduct.
Why is the RICS Important?
RICS surveyors are vital for upholding standards in the property industry. They provide expert advice to support the smooth running of property transactions and development projects. In Norfolk, it's particularly important to have properly qualified surveyors due to the unique nature of local buildings, many of which are historic. RICS members have the skills to survey these properties appropriately.
Do I Need an RICS Surveyor?
Appointing an RICS surveyor for any property transaction is highly advisable. They can identify issues that may affect a property's safety and value, enabling buyers to make informed decisions. For example, cracks, damp, and subsidence risks are common in Norfolk properties due to the environmental conditions prevalent in the county. An RICS survey is the best way to highlight these before contracts are exchanged.
Is an RICS Surveyor More Expensive?
RICS-accredited surveyors may have slightly higher fees than non-accredited surveyors. However, they offer peace of mind that you are getting an expert, reliable service that meets official industry standards. This is worthwhile paying extra for, especially considering a property purchase is a major financial commitment.
Other regulatory bodies for surveyors include:
The Chartered Institution of Civil Engineering Surveyors (ICES)
The Ecclesiastical Architects & Surveyors Association (EASA)
The SAVA HCS Scheme
Can I Complain if an RICS Surveyor Does a Bad Job?
Yes, all RICS members must follow prescribed rules of conduct. If you have concerns about an RICS surveyor's service or behaviour, they must provide you with a formal Complaints Handling Procedure. If you cannot reach an agreement with them, you can raise a complaint with RICS Regulation. Complaints are fully investigated, and disciplinary action taken if appropriate. Knowing there is recourse for substandard work brings reassurance when appointing an RICS surveyor.
Where Can I Find an RICS Surveyor?
You can search for RICS-accredited chartered surveyors in your local area using the 'Find a Surveyor' tool on the RICS website. Information is provided about surveyors' expertise and the types of surveys they conduct. Look for a Norfolk surveyor with specific experience surveying local properties for the most appropriate advice. Contact us to learn more about the service we offer.
Instructing an RICS surveyor brings reliability to Norfolk's property market. Although fees may be slightly higher, the expertise and assurance an RICS surveyor brings is worthwhile for significant property transactions or developments.