How to Become RICS Certified as a Chartered Surveyor

The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) is a globally recognised professional body that sets standards for surveying professionals. This article outlines the steps to achieve RICS certification and become a successful chartered surveyor.

Understanding the Role of a Chartered Surveyor

A chartered surveyor is a property professional who has been accredited by RICS. They specialise in various fields, including property valuation, land surveying, and building surveying. Their expertise allows them to provide vital insights and services such as property inspections, market analysis, and risk assessments. As a property valuation expert, a chartered surveyor plays a crucial role in determining the market value of properties, assisting clients in making informed decisions.

Why Become RICS Certified?

RICS certification not only enhances your professional credibility but also increases your employability in the competitive real estate market. Clients and employers often prefer to work with RICS surveyors because they adhere to high ethical standards and professional practices. Additionally, becoming RICS certified allows you to join a global network of professionals, providing access to resources, training, and career development opportunities.

Steps to Achieve RICS Certification

1. Obtain the Necessary Educational Qualifications

The first step toward becoming a chartered surveyor is to secure a relevant educational background. Most candidates hold a degree in fields such as:

• Real Estate Management

• Building Surveying

• Civil Engineering

• Property Management

Typically, a bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) in one of these disciplines is required. It's essential to ensure that your degree programme is accredited by RICS, as this will be crucial for your application.

2. Gain Practical Experience

After completing your degree, the next step is to gain practical experience in the surveying field. Many candidates work as assistants or trainees in a chartered surveying firm or as a building surveyor. This experience is vital as it allows you to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world situations, ranging from conducting property inspections to preparing surveyor reports.

Most RICS candidates need at least two years of relevant work experience, often referred to as the "Assessment of Professional Competence" (APC) period. During this time, you will need to develop specific competencies related to your chosen surveying pathway.

3. Choose Your Specialisation

As a chartered surveyor, you can choose to specialise in various fields, including:

• Residential Surveyor: Focuses on residential properties and conducts homebuyer reports.

• Commercial Property Surveyor: Works with commercial properties, providing insights on value and market conditions.

• Property Valuation Expert: Specialises in assessing property values for various purposes, including sales, rentals, and taxation.

• Land Surveyor: Involves mapping and measuring land for development or construction purposes.

Selecting a specialisation allows you to tailor your training and experience to meet the specific needs of that field.

4. Complete the RICS APC

The Assessment of Professional Competence (APC) is the core component of becoming RICS certified. During the APC, you will demonstrate your competencies in surveying through a series of tasks and assessments. This includes:

• Submitting a surveyor report detailing your work experience and achievements.

• Completing a competency log to track your progress.

• Preparing for a final assessment interview where you will discuss your experience and knowledge with a panel of RICS assessors.

Preparation for the APC is crucial, and many candidates attend workshops or training sessions offered by surveying consultancy firms to ensure they are ready.

5. Pass the RICS Assessment

The final step to becoming a chartered surveyor is passing the RICS assessment. The assessment consists of:

• An interview with a panel of RICS members.

• A review of your submitted documentation, including your competency log and surveyor report.

Successful candidates will receive their RICS certification, allowing them to use the designation "MRICS" (Member of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors) after their name.

Continuing Professional Development (CPD)

Once you are certified, it is essential to engage in continuous professional development (CPD). RICS requires members to maintain their skills and knowledge through ongoing education and training. This could involve attending seminars, workshops, or additional courses in areas such as land surveying, structural surveys, or advanced property valuation techniques.

Conclusion

Becoming RICS-certified as a chartered surveyor is a rewarding journey that requires dedication, education, and practical experience. By following the outlined steps—securing the right educational qualifications, gaining relevant work experience, completing the APC, and engaging in continuous professional development—you can establish yourself as a credible and successful chartered surveyor. This certification not only enhances your career prospects but also positions you as a trusted professional in the property management and real estate sectors. With the right commitment and expertise, you can make a significant impact in this dynamic field.