The most recognised professional body for surveyors is the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS).
After completing a degree, you can enter the RICS Assessment of Professional Competence (APC) scheme. This involves two years of practical experience, during which you are supervised and assessed in various technical and professional skills.
Once you pass the final assessment, you become a Chartered Surveyor (MRICS), which is a mark of trust and expertise in the industry.
Some people take alternative routes, such as apprenticeships or postgraduate conversion courses if they come from unrelated academic backgrounds.
According to the UK Government, over 70% of surveying professionals are members of RICS, showing the value of gaining chartered status. This recognition helps with better job prospects and higher earning potential.
Branching into Specialisms Like Party Wall Surveying
After qualifying as a general surveyor, many choose to focus on special areas. One such area is party wall surveying. A party wall surveyor deals with disputes or agreements between neighbours when building work affects a shared wall or boundary. This work is guided by the Party Wall etc. Act 1996.
To move into this area, it's helpful to take further training or short courses that focus on the party wall process. Some experienced surveyors also join professional groups like the Pyramus & Thisbe Club, which supports those involved in party wall matters. While you don’t need to be chartered to act as a party wall surveyor, a strong understanding of construction, property law, and dispute resolution is essential.
Skills You Need To Be a Surveyor
Key skills for surveyors include attention to detail, strong communication, and good maths abilities. For party wall surveyors, negotiation and mediation skills are especially important. You’ll often need to work with neighbours who are in disagreement, so staying calm and professional is vital. Understanding building regulations, legal procedures, and construction methods is also important across all surveying roles.
What Are The Salary Expectations For a Surveyor?
Surveyor salaries vary based on experience and specialism. According to RICS, the average UK salary for a Chartered Surveyor is around £55,000 per year. Junior surveyors may start at £25,000–£30,000, but this can rise quickly with experience. Party wall surveyors, especially those working in London, can earn £60,000 or more, depending on the volume and complexity of work.
Is It Better To Work For a Firm or Go Solo as a Surveyor?
Many new surveyors start their careers working for a surveying firm or local authority. This provides valuable experience, guidance, and a steady income while building confidence. Once you have a few years under your belt, going solo becomes a more realistic option. As a self-employed surveyor, you can set your own rates and choose your clients, which can lead to higher earnings. However, running your own business also brings challenges like finding clients, managing accounts, and dealing with insurance.
What Are Pros and Cons of a Career as a Surveyor?
A career in surveying offers good job security, especially with the UK’s ongoing demand for housing and infrastructure. It’s a respected profession with varied work and opportunities to specialise. However, it can also be demanding, especially when dealing with disputes or managing complex legal issues. Solo work can offer freedom, but it may feel isolating or risky without a strong client base.
In summary, becoming a surveyor in the UK is a structured process that offers many paths for growth. With the right training and experience, you can specialise in areas like party wall surveying and build a successful, rewarding career.
