The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors has launched a six-week public consultation on updates to its key home survey standard.  

The Rics survey was developed to support consistency, raise standards, and deliver public confidence in the residential survey market. It was launched in 2021 after being drafted two years earlier. 

The surveyors’ body says that over 325 of its members have given their feedback on the effectiveness of the current standard, as well as suggestions for improvement.

At the same time, a survey of more than 1,400 homeowners was carried out to capture public views around home surveys. 

Rics says that the “findings from both surveys have informed the draft of an updated standard”. 

The body adds: “A separate consultation will also explore interest in the potential development of a home survey regulation scheme, aimed at further supporting public trust and professional consistency in the market.” 

“While the consultations are running at the same time and concern home surveys, they are fundamentally separate from each other. Insights shared on the regulatory scheme will not impact the updated standard, and vice versa.” 

Both consultations are now open and will run for six weeks. 

Chair of the Expert Group Gary Epps says: “The Rics home survey standard is a key document underpinning consumer confidence and professional practice in the residential market. 

“This update reflects our commitment to maintaining best practice, adapting to market developments, and listening to the views of members and consumers alike.”