RICS consults on updated home survey standard and home survey regulation scheme
The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) has launched a consultation on proposed updates to its home survey standard. The consultation follows feedback from over 325 RICS professionals and 1,400 UK homeowners on the current first edition, which was implemented in 2021. Proposed changes include: (1) updated information on legislation and regulatory practices; (2) greater clarity on levels of surveying; (3) optional valuation for all levels of surveying; and (4) guidance for ‘additional risk’ dwellings, among other updates. After the consultation period, the updated standard will be reviewed and approved by the Knowledge and Practice Committee and the Standards and Regulation Board, with the second edition expected to be published in late Q1 2026. Separately, RICS is consulting on the potential development of a home survey regulation scheme, which would require members conducting home surveys in the UK to meet specific regulatory requirements. Following the consultation, RICS will review responses and may conduct further detailed consultation on implementation. If approved, the scheme could be in place by the end of 2027. The consultations both close on 30 September 2025.