Certificate in Residential Surveying.

Training

Training lasts for 10 months and is delivered via a mix of face-to-face and online learning. It includes the following modules:

• Module information – click to view
  1. Being A Professional
     This module discusses everything it means to be professional and introduces ethics, client care, communication, regulation, and professional conduct. It covers conflict avoidance, management, and dispute resolution procedures
  2. Law
     Law underpins the whole qualification. This module introduces law and discusses how it is made and introduces some land law concepts such as easements, restrictive covenants, contract law negligence, and occupier’s liability. It also covers legal and regulatory compliance
  3. Property Research and Observation
     Observational and research skills are essential for surveying and these modules introduce completing thorough property research as well as developing the skills needed to ’see’ and record those observations in residential properties. This module also includes the importance of keeping property records and data management and introduces health and safety in residential property. By working in groups, you will begin to develop these skills
  4. Investigating Residential Property – Case Study Properties
     This module focus on how properties are built and what can go wrong. They look at sites, foundations, floors, roofs, walls, and joinery. We explore how residential buildings should be correctly built and the process of diagnosing the cause of defects such as building movement, dampness etc. The interactive sessions will focus on case study properties
  5. Investigating Residential Property – Building Services
     This module looks at service systems and what can go wrong. It covers inspection and testing of service systems, electrical systems, heating services, plumbing and drainage. The interactive session will focus on a case study property
  6. Inspecting Property
     Building upon the observation and recording skills from earlier in the course, this focuses on the inspection ‘agenda’ and equipment. It covers property measurement in depth (including industry regulatory standards) and looks at residential rebuilding costs. It also covers health and safety whilst on site
  7. Investigating Residential Property – Practical days
     The practical days are site visits to a range of real properties to carry out a full inspection followed by a detailed analysis of the findings to determine what defects might exist and how impactful they would be on the owner. Please note: regardless of course location, these site visits take place in Milton Keynes. The practical sessions will be followed by an overview day to ensure you develop a robust inspection technique
  8. Introduction to Assessment
     This module focuses on sustainability using the ‘three pillar’ framework. It looks in depth at energy efficiency and how appropriate energy improvement measures and renewable technologies can contribute to the carbon saving agenda. It covers RDSAP conventions as part of this, but the course does not give you the ability to produce EPCS

Assessment

Once the training is complete, you will then produce a portfolio of evidence for assessment. This will include 3 condition reports so that you can demonstrate your technical knowledge, as well as written tasks to assess your business and interpersonal skills.

How long does it take?

The training takes 10 months, and once this is complete you move onto assessment. The assessment should take between 3-6 months to complete.

Trainer expertise

The training is delivered by leading surveying practitioners, including Phil Parnham, Larry Russen, Chris Rispin and Alan Appleby  – many of whom deliver training for RICS and have written much of the industry guidance and text books that are used on the Diploma.

How much study do I need to undertake?

This depends on the relevance of your past work experience and your individual learning style. Most learners dedicate a minimum of 10-15 hours each week to study.

What are the entry requirements?

There are no formal requirements for entry onto this qualification. However, learners should be able to demonstrate English Writing, Mathematics and IT skills comprehension at a level equivalent to an A-C GCSE.

Who the Qualification is designed for?

The Certificate is ideal for those returning to the residential surveying sector who want an in-depth training programme with limited assessment. Ideal for those who are already a member of the RICS.

The Certificate in Residential Surveying is similar to the Diploma in Residential Surveying and Valuation – but without the valuation element and with a considerably reduced assessment structure. Therefore, it does not map against any Associate RICS pathway for entry to RICS.

The best way to think of the certificate is as a structured CPD programme with evidence of the learning. It is a robust level 6 qualification, accredited through an awarding body, and give employers evidence of the learning undertaken and knowledge attained. For this reason when combined with previous experience, other professional qualifications (such as Associate Membership of RICS through a different route to membership) or other academic qualifications it may give you direct access to employment on its own, and give you access to the following career options:

• Join a surveying firm – most surveying companies offer 9-to-5 employment so if you are looking for a salaried position joining an existing firm could be for you.
• Working with a housing provider – you will have a deep understanding of construction and building pathology, essential for modern housing managers.
• Find work through a panel of surveyors – a surveying panel offers work to its members on a contract basis – perfect if you are looking for some flexibility with your workload.

In addition, it is an excellent option for someone returning to residential property after a career break or working in a different sector as it demonstrates valid certificated CPD.

Course Fees

The total qualification cost is £8,950 inc. VAT. Payment plans are available. Click here to view the full pricing information.

Course Intakes

The Certificate is run from several locations throughout the UK. Contact us for more information on start dates.