RICS home improvements

Consultation launched on Home survey standard & regulatory scheme

Earlier this year, we highlighted that the RICS review of its Home Survey Standard, created in 2019 and in place since 2021, was underway and to expect the release of a revised Home Surveys document in 2025 (you can read that article in full here).  The Standard sets the benchmark for best practice in residential surveys across the UK, providing a clear framework for consistent, high-quality standards and increased protection for consumers.  As the profession and market has evolved, so too must the Standard in order to address concerns relating to aspects which require improvement as well as to expand scope.  As part of its review, the RICS conducted a member survey with 325 respondents and a UK consumer survey of over 1400 homeowners.  With the review complete, the RICS has now launched a consultation on the proposed changes on the draft 2nd Edition which will run until 30 September 2025.

Proposed changes include:

• Updated information on legislation and regulatory practices including a set of approved documents/building standards outlining compliance with Building Regulations
• Use of technology and AI ensuring compliance with the Standard, with reference to the RICS' Responsible use of AI in surveying professional standard (due for release later this year and you can read our article on it in full here)
• Greater clarity on levels of surveying
• Optional valuation for all levels of surveying
• Guidance for ‘additional risk’ dwellings which are likely to require enhanced understanding
• Additional services, from retrofit buildings to drone inspections

Separately, RICS is consulting on a home survey regulatory scheme and its potential benefits for clients.  Under the proposed scheme, RICS members who carry out home surveys in the UK would need to follow defined regulatory standards.  RICS would oversee compliance and provide feedback.  Members would also have to complete extra reporting and undergo audits.  These steps aim to give the public more confidence in the quality and consistency of RICS surveys.  Following the consultation, RICS will review all feedback, may carry out further consultation on how the scheme would be implemented, and, if approved, introduce the scheme by the end of 2027.

Members are encouraged to actively participate in the consultations.  As surveying professionals, your input can directly influence the future developments in the sector.  The input you provide can shape a more transparent framework that fosters trust and strengthens resilience within the surveying profession.  You can have your say on the consultations here.