New rules for home surveys move a step closer with the closure of a key consultation next week.

The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) is working on a revised ‘standard’ for pre-sale surveys, which includes more clearly defined levels.

And the RICS says it will publish the final version of the standard, which is the second edition, early next year.

Overhaul

An expert group has put together the proposals based on feedback from the public and professionals, around four years after the last overhaul of the standard.

“Our objective is to ensure that it keeps pace with an evolving market and continues to meet the needs of consumers and surveyors,” RICS says.

“The standard must maintain its place as the benchmark in home surveys, with consumers assured that they can rely on RICS members for excellent service and clear and comprehensive home surveys.”

Confusion

With some confusion about the difference between the three levels of inspection in the surveys, RICS has ensured this is addressed.

“A key piece of feedback identified from the consumer survey, and also asked by members, was a lack of understanding about the different RICS home survey levels.

We have expanded on the scope required per level of service to show the degree of checks needed in an inspection.”

“We have expanded on the scope required per level of service to show the degree of checks needed in an inspection,” RICS says.

The consultation deadline is Tuesday 14 October, and responses can be recorded here.

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