Building control surveyor : Entry requirements

Although this area of work is open to all graduates, a relevant degree/HND in the following subjects may increase your chances:

• building control;
• building surveying;
• building engineering;
• civil engineering;
• construction studies;
• structural engineering. 

It is important that the degree is accredited and meets the academic requirements of a professional body. The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS)  and the Association of Building Engineers (ABE)  are the two main professional bodies. There is also the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB)  for surveyors who specialise in architectural surveying.

Graduates with non-accredited or non-cognate degrees are required to undertake a conversion course to upgrade their academic qualifications, either by taking an approved higher degree or by completing modules of an approved first degree. Increasingly, this option is available by distance learning while on the job.

Diplomates can enter this area of work, with opportunities for further training whilst working. A top-up degree course is necessary for those who wish to become chartered surveyors or corporate members of the ABE; this can be undertaken on a part-time basis after entering employment.

Initial entry without a degree or HND is possible. Some enter this area of work after training and experience in one of the building trades, followed by part-time study for relevant qualifications.

More information on courses and qualifications can be found on the RICS and ABE websites.

Candidates will need to show evidence of the following:

• excellent communication skills, written and oral, as the work demands constant contact with people at all levels;
• diplomacy and the ability to be persuasive and tactful while remaining independent;
• good judgement to help you decide when to insist on corrections, when to persuade or negotiate, and when to compromise;
• the ability to be firm, for example, when explaining why work is not up to standard and must be done again;
• knowledge of the technical and legal aspects of building;
• IT skills.

A driving licence is usually required.

Pre-entry experience in a property or a surveying environment is desirable and is highly regarded by recruiters. This will be invaluable if your degree is not directly relevant. A work experience placement can also give a good understanding of the construction industry as a whole, what skills are required and help assess your suitability for the work.

Building control is frequently a second career entered by people with training and experience in another construction profession or in civil engineering.

At present there is a national shortage of qualified building control surveyors, which is likely to lead to a great number of opportunities in the future. Other property and surveying professions are more competitive.

For more information, see work experience and internships and search courses and research.