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Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for a Residential Surveyor

💰 $80,000 - $120,000

Real EstateSurveyingConstructionProperty

🎯 Role Definition

This role requires a detail-oriented and motivated Residential Surveyor to join our dynamic team. In this pivotal role, you will be the face of our company, providing clients with expert advice and comprehensive reports on residential properties. You will operate with a high degree of autonomy, managing your own schedule to conduct thorough inspections and valuations across a designated geographical area. The ideal candidate is a qualified RICS professional (AssocRICS or MRICS) with a passion for property, a keen eye for detail, and a commitment to upholding the highest standards of professional practice and customer service. This is an exceptional opportunity to build a rewarding career with a supportive firm that values quality and professional development.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

  • Graduate Surveyor / Trainee Surveyor
  • Valuation Technician
  • Experienced Estate Agent with a valuation background

Advancement To:

  • Senior Residential Surveyor / Principal Surveyor
  • Regional Surveying Manager / Area Director
  • Technical & Audit Manager

Lateral Moves:

  • Commercial Property Surveyor
  • Building Control Surveyor
  • Loss Adjuster or Insurance Surveyor

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

  • Conduct thorough and detailed inspections of a diverse range of residential properties, identifying structural issues, defects, and necessary repairs.
  • Prepare accurate and comprehensive RICS Home Survey Reports (Level 2) and RICS Building Survey Reports (Level 3) in a timely and efficient manner.
  • Undertake accurate Market Valuations for a variety of purposes including secured lending, probate, matrimonial proceedings, and private client advice, adhering strictly to RICS 'Red Book' Global Standards.
  • Meticulously document property conditions, building pathology, and construction defects using industry-standard software and mobile technology.
  • Manage your own diary and workflow effectively to maximize productivity, meet service level agreements (SLAs), and optimize travel routes within your assigned geographic territory.
  • Provide exceptional customer service by clearly communicating survey findings to clients, lenders, and professional intermediaries both verbally and in writing.
  • Maintain an up-to-date and in-depth knowledge of the local property market, including value trends, demand dynamics, and new build developments.
  • Assess the reinstatement cost of properties for building insurance purposes, ensuring accurate calculations based on property type, size, and features.
  • Proactively identify and report on potential risks, such as environmental hazards (e.g., Japanese Knotweed, asbestos) or legal title issues observed during inspection.
  • Ensure all professional activities are conducted in full compliance with RICS regulations, professional ethics, and internal company quality assurance standards.
  • Build and maintain strong professional relationships with mortgage lenders, panel managers, solicitors, and estate agents to foster business growth and a positive reputation.
  • Stay current with evolving building regulations, construction techniques, and relevant legislation that impacts the residential property sector.
  • Effectively handle and resolve any post-valuation or post-survey queries from clients or lenders, demonstrating expertise and professionalism.
  • Participate actively in internal and external audits, ensuring personal files and reports meet the highest quality and compliance benchmarks.
  • Use and maintain company-provided equipment, including surveying tools, mobile devices, and software, to ensure operational efficiency.
  • Contribute to the team's success by sharing knowledge, best practices, and insights on complex cases with colleagues.
  • Achieve and exceed personal and team-based targets for productivity, quality, and turnaround times.
  • Liaise with internal support teams to ensure a smooth and seamless workflow from instruction to report submission.
  • Act as a brand ambassador, representing the company with integrity and professionalism in all interactions.
  • Commit to ongoing Continuing Professional Development (CPD) to maintain and enhance professional competence and RICS membership status.

Secondary Functions

  • Mentor and provide guidance to junior surveyors, trainees, and new team members to support their professional development.
  • Contribute to business development initiatives by identifying opportunities and promoting the company's services within the local market.
  • Participate in regular team meetings, training sessions, and technical forums to discuss industry trends and complex cases.
  • Assist in the resolution of formal complaints, providing detailed information and a clear rationale for decisions made.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

  • RICS Qualification: Mandatory AssocRICS, MRICS, or FRICS designation.
  • VRS Registration: Active membership in the RICS Valuer Registration Scheme.
  • Survey & Valuation Expertise: Proficient in producing RICS Home Survey Level 2 (HomeBuyer Report) and Level 3 (Building Survey).
  • Red Book Proficiency: Deep understanding and practical application of RICS Valuation – Global Standards ('Red Book').
  • Building Pathology: Strong knowledge of building defects, their causes, and appropriate remedies.
  • Valuation Software: Competency in using industry-specific valuation and surveying software (e.g., Quest, Valuation Exchange, e-tech).
  • Market Analysis: Ability to research and analyze local property market data to support valuation figures.
  • Report Writing: Exceptional ability to write clear, concise, and technically accurate reports for a varied audience.
  • Risk Identification: Skilled in identifying property-related risks, including structural, legal, and environmental issues.
  • IT Proficiency: Comfortable using Microsoft Office Suite, mobile applications, and property databases.

Soft Skills

  • Attention to Detail: Meticulous and thorough in both physical inspections and report documentation.
  • Time Management: Excellent organizational skills with the ability to self-manage a demanding caseload and meet strict deadlines.
  • Communication: Outstanding written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to explain complex technical issues in simple terms.
  • Client Focus: A strong commitment to delivering a high-quality, professional service and a positive client experience.
  • Problem-Solving: Proactive and logical approach to identifying and resolving issues encountered during surveys.
  • Integrity & Professionalism: Unquestionable ethical standards and a professional demeanor.
  • Autonomy: Self-motivated and disciplined, with the ability to work independently and effectively from a home base.
  • Commercial Acumen: An awareness of the business context and the ability to build strong professional networks.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

  • AssocRICS or MRICS professional qualification.

Preferred Education:

  • A RICS-accredited Bachelor's or Master's degree.

Relevant Fields of Study:

  • Building Surveying
  • Real Estate Management
  • Estate Management
  • Construction and the Built Environment

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range:

  • A minimum of 1-2 years of post-qualification experience in residential surveying and valuation.

Preferred:

  • Experience working directly for a lender's panel manager or a large, multi-disciplinary surveying practice.
  • A proven track record of high-quality report writing and valuation accuracy with low audit failure rates.
  • Demonstrable in-depth knowledge of the specific geographic patch for the role.
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