How to become a building surveyor
There are several routes to becoming a building surveyor. You could do a university degree, an apprenticeship, or on-the-job training.
You should explore these routes to becoming a building surveyor to find out which is the right one for you. Although some of these options have certain qualification requirements, many employers are more interested in people who are enthusiastic, willing to learn and can follow instructions.
You may need a Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) card to work on a construction site.
University
You could complete an undergraduate degree in a relevant subject that is approved by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors, such as:
- Surveying
- Construction
- Civil engineering
- Building engineering.
To study an undergraduate degree, you’ll usually need 2 - 3 A levels, or equivalent.
If your undergraduate degree is in a subject such as economics, law or maths, you could take an accredited postgraduate qualification in surveying to become a building surveyor.
Graduate training scheme
To become a building surveyor, you could complete a postgraduate qualification through a graduate trainee scheme with a construction company, or through a distance learning course with the University College of Estate Management.
College/training provider
You could complete a construction-related qualification to help you on your career path to becoming a building surveyor, such as a level 3 diploma in Construction and the Built Environment or a T Level in Construction Design, Surveying and Planning.
Apprenticeship
An apprenticeship with a construction company is a good way into the industry. You could complete a chartered surveyor apprenticeship to become a building surveyor.
You’ll need up to 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent to become an apprentice.
Apprenticeships are open to anyone over the age of 16. As an apprentice, you will be fully employed by your company and expected to work a minimum of 30 hours a week. Your time will be split between on-the-job experience and a college or training provider.
Work
If you have previous experience or qualifications and can find work as a surveying technician, you may be able to do further qualifications on-the-job to become a building surveyor.
Work experience
Work experience is essential to gaining employment within the construction industry. You could gain this at school, or by working weekends and holidays with a company or relative who works as a building surveyor. Potential employers will always be pleased to see work experience listed on your CV.
Skills
Additional skills which may benefit anyone considering a job as a building surveyor include:
- Knowledge of building and construction
- Good customer service skills
- Ability to use your initiative
- Analytical thinking skills
- Patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations.
