A Day Through the Keyhole: The Life of a RICS Surveyor & Valuer
Ever wondered what really goes into checking a property before someone makes that huge decision to buy? For a RICS (Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors) qualified Building Surveyor and Registered Valuer, their days are spent delving deep into the bricks and mortar of people's potential dream homes – or sometimes, their potential money pits!
They primarily conduct RICS Home Survey Level 2 (often called a HomeBuyer Report) and the more detailed RICS Home Survey Level 3 (a Full Building Survey). No two days, or houses, are ever quite the same for these professionals.
6:30 AM – The Early Bird Catches the… Defects?
The surveyor's alarm typically goes off early. For them, the day often starts with a strong coffee while reviewing their schedule. A typical day might involve a Level 2 survey on a 1930s semi-detached in Surrey, followed by a Level 3 on a rather grand-looking Victorian terraced house closer to Epsom.
For each property, the surveyor will have already done some initial desktop research – checking its age, type, local flood maps, and any previous sales data, which is particularly crucial for the valuation aspect that comes with a Level 2 survey. They meticulously double-check their kit bag: damp meter, high-powered torch, laser measure, binoculars for roof inspections, various prodding tools, a sturdy set of ladders, their camera, and an iPad for note-taking and accessing RICS guidelines. Ensuring everything is charged and ready is key to a smooth day.
9:00 AM – Survey Number One: The 1930s Semi (Level 2)
The surveyor arrives at the first property. A Level 2 survey is ideal for conventionally built, modern homes in reasonable condition. It provides a comprehensive overview, highlighting significant issues using a traffic light system (Condition Ratings 1, 2, and 3) and includes a market valuation and reinstatement cost for insurance purposes.
Their inspection is methodical, starting externally. They are looking at the roof covering, chimneys, gutters, and downpipes (are they leaking or blocked?). Then it’s the walls – any cracks or signs of damp? Windows and doors get a thorough check too. They will inspect accessible drains and the general condition of the grounds.
Inside, the surveyor works room by room, from the ground floor up into the roof space (if accessible and safe). They tap walls, check for dampness with their meter, look for signs of timber decay, structural movement, or issues with the services (plumbing, electrical installations – though they are not specialist electricians or plumbers, they will report on visible condition and recommend further investigation if needed). The key with a Level 2 is to identify anything that might significantly affect the property's value or needs urgent attention. They take copious notes and photos throughout.
12:30 PM – Lunch on the Go & Travel
A quick sandwich in the car as the surveyor heads to the second property. This is a good time for them to mentally process the findings from the first survey and prepare for the different approach needed for the Level 3.
1:30 PM – Survey Number Two: The Victorian Terrace (Level 3)
This second property requires a Level 3 survey. It's older, more complex in its construction, and perhaps has had some alterations over the years. A Level 3 is a much more detailed inspection. While it can include a valuation if agreed with the client, the primary focus is on providing an in-depth analysis of the property's condition and construction, identifying defects, their causes, and advice on repair options, including likely timings and potential costs.
The process is similar to the Level 2 but far more granular. The surveyor will spend more time in the roof void and any cellarage, looking closely at the structural integrity. They will be describing the construction methods used for different parts of the building and how they might be performing. They are, in a sense, peeling back the layers of the property. For example, identifying the type of pointing on the brickwork and its condition becomes more critical, as does understanding the implications of historic movement or past repairs. It's about building a complete picture of the property's health.
5:00 PM – Back to Base: The Report Writing Begins
With the on-site inspections done, the "other half" of the job begins: report writing. This is where all their notes, photos, and professional judgment come together. Each report needs to be clear, concise, and provide actionable advice for their client.
For the Level 2 survey, the surveyor will input the condition ratings, describe the issues, and provide their market valuation, cross-referencing local comparable sales data. For the Level 3, the report is more descriptive and detailed, outlining the repair options and implications. Accuracy and clarity are paramount – their clients are relying on this information to make one of the biggest financial decisions of their lives. This often means the surveyor is working into the evening, especially if reports are complex or deadlines are tight.
7:30 PM – Winding Down (and Planning Ahead!)
After a few solid hours of report writing, they will review what they have done and make a plan for completing the reports the following day. Perhaps there’s a specific technical point to research further, or a client may need to be called back regarding a preliminary finding (always with the caveat that the full written report will follow). Before logging off, they quickly check the next day’s schedule and might spend 30 minutes on some RICS Continuous Professional Development (CPD) to keep their skills and knowledge up to date.
Being a Building Surveyor and Registered Valuer is demanding, requiring a keen eye for detail, a methodical approach, excellent communication skills, and the ability to stay calm under pressure. But it's incredibly rewarding for them to know that their work helps people make informed and confident property decisions.
Looking for a new Surveying Role?
If this glimpse into the life of a surveyor has sparked your interest in pursuing such a rewarding career, it’s worth knowing that specialist property recruitment companies like Worth Recruiting are currently highlighting a range of new and exciting roles for RICS qualified surveyors across the South of England. It’s a dynamic profession with plenty of opportunities for those with a keen eye and a passion for property!
