Guide to Qualifying as a Surveyor in the UK and the Question of Specialized Practice
In the fascinating world of surveying, one specialised area that offers a successful and rewarding career is party wall surveying. This role involves managing disputes or agreements between neighbours when building work affects a shared wall or boundary, guided by the Party Wall etc. Act 1996.
Relevant Training and Qualifications
Although there isn't a specific license for party wall surveyors, the role typically requires a solid understanding of the Party Wall Act and construction principles. Many party wall surveyors have backgrounds in building surveying, architecture, civil engineering, or related fields. To equip oneself with the necessary knowledge, taking targeted training courses on the Party Wall Act is essential. Several private organisations and training providers offer accredited Party Wall training courses.
Professional Membership and Accreditation
Joining recognised professional bodies is crucial for credibility and continuous professional development. The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) is a well-respected professional body that offers a broad professional qualification in surveying and resources related to party wall matters. Other professional organisations specialising in party wall matters include the Faculty of Party Wall Surveyors or the Pyramus and Thisbe Club, which offer networking and training opportunities.
Gaining Practical Experience
Hands-on experience working with party wall matters is invaluable. This could involve working under an experienced surveyor to understand real-world applications, dispute resolution, and preparing party wall awards.
Continuing Professional Development (CPD)
To stay updated with any changes to legislation, guidance, or sector standards, it's essential to maintain membership in professional bodies and regularly engage in CPD.
The Path to Chartered Surveyor Status
To become a Chartered Surveyor, one must complete the RICS Assessment of Professional Competence (APC) scheme, which involves two years of practical experience and various technical and professional assessments.
Starting Your Career
Many new surveyors start their careers working for a surveying firm or local authority. Some may take alternative routes, such as apprenticeships or postgraduate conversion courses, to enter the field if they come from unrelated academic backgrounds.
The Challenges and Rewards
A career in surveying offers good job security and is a respected profession with varied work and opportunities to specialise. However, it can also be demanding, especially when dealing with disputes or managing complex legal issues. Some experienced surveyors join professional groups like the Pyramus & Thisbe Club, which supports those involved in party wall matters.
Earnings and Self-Employment
Junior surveyors can start earning between £25,000-£30,000, but this can rise quickly with experience. Party wall surveyors, especially those working in London, can earn £60,000 or more, depending on the volume and complexity of work. The average UK salary for a Chartered Surveyor is around £55,000 per year. Solo work in surveying can offer freedom, but it may feel isolating or risky without a strong client base. As a self-employed surveyor, you can set your own rates and choose your clients, which can lead to higher earnings.
Further Training for Party Wall Surveying
To move into party wall surveying, further training or short courses focusing on the party wall process are helpful. While not necessary to be chartered to act as a party wall surveyor, a strong understanding of construction, property law, and dispute resolution is essential.
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To excel in the field of party wall surveying, it's beneficial to pursue additional skills training, such as targeted courses on the Party Wall Act, in conjunction with career development opportunities, to enhance one's understanding of construction principles and party wall legislation. (skills-training, career-development)
Continuing professional development (CPD) is vital for party wall surveyors to stay updated with changes in legislation and sector standards, which can be maintained through membership in professional bodies like the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS). (CPD, professional-membership)
