Building surveyor
Building surveyors provide professional advice on all aspects of property and construction. They work in a wide range of areas such as designing new buildings, refurbishments, specifying and supervising construction work and altering and extending existing buildings.
They ensure properties conform to regulations governing issues like public access, health and safety and energy conservation.
Did you know?
RICS (The Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors) is very keen to encourage more women into this field of work, as currently women make up just 15% of surveyors.
Facts and Figures
- Starting salary:
Average salary of £24,000 three years after leaving university
- Senior level salary:
Partners in surveying firms can earn over £75,000
- Education:
You'll need an accredited degree in building surveying.
- Skills:
You'll need to be strong in maths and IT and have good organisational and communication skills.
- Likely employer type:
Large multinational construction and property firms. Small private surveying practices. Local authorities. Professionals can also work for banks, insurance companies, department stores and hotels
- Working hours:
Generally 9am to 5pm, although longer hours may be required for meeting and socialising with clients.
- Opportunities:
Building surveyors are in considerable demand nationally.
- Number of professionals:
RICS has 12,000 members worldwide.
Meet a building surveyor
Helpful links
- The Royal Institution of Chartered SurveyorsInformation on building surveying as well as links to accredited courses
- Association of Building Engineers A professional body for those specialising in the technology of building
- Chartered Institute of Building Advice on all aspects of the building profession and details of training available
- Construction Industry CouncilThe website offers careers and learning advice
- Jobs in Surveying The website has details of private, public and commercial jobs in surveying
