RICS Hot Topics

Question 1

Are you aware of any guidance that applies to RICS members when using social media?

Answer 1

RICS introduced the Guidance Note ‘USE of Social Media: Guidance for Members Version 1’ - took effect from 30th June 2021.

Question 2

How do you ensure you operate in line with RICS guidance on social media?

Answer 2

I am sure to always use social media in a responsible and professional manner in the same way I communicate face-to-face or other written forms of communication. I use professional and respectful language - as I understand representing RICS. Never make a post which is dishonest.

Question 3

Please explain your understanding of the RICS Inclusive Employer Quality Mark?

Answer 3

RICS is launching a scheme to improve diversity and inclusion within the construction and property sectors. Requires employers to pledge their commitment against the six main principles. Participating firms will be required to assess their performance on a bi-annual basis.

Question 4

When would RICS investigate a social media post made by members?

Answer 4

If it is
-Discriminatory
-Dishonest
-Abusive or threatening
-Likely to cause significant harm, distress or offence to a person
-Pattern of frequent or large number of concerning communications
-Ignores previous advice or warnings about concerns

Question 5

What are the main benefits of diversity and inclusion?

Answer 5

-Attracts skilled professionals from different backgrounds.
-Establishes sense of belonging amongst employees
-Employees feel more connected
-Increases productivity
-Reduces turnover
-Employees feel valued and accepted

Question 6

What are RICS doing to improve diversity and inclusion?

Answer 6

-RICS has set up ‘Diversity and Inclusion Leadership’ - knowledge hub to share ideas.
Has creating ideas such as International Women’s Day.

Question 7

What are your views on the pros and cons of hybrid working?

Answer 7

Pros:
-Improved work life balance
-Higher focus with fewer distractions
-Saved commute time and cost
-Savings on office space
-Higher job satisfaction

Cons:
-Loss of social connection
-Reduced collaboration
-Productivity dependent on work space
-Less recognition
-Burn out

Question 8

Please explain your understanding of the Bichard review?

Answer 8

Commissioned by RIC Governing Board in December 2021 following the Levitt Review - new purpose and direction of RICs.
36 recommendations - 1 example diversity and inclusion panel to be set up.

Question 9

Please explain your understanding of how the RICs define Professional Standards v Practice Information.

Answer 9

Professional Standards set out requirements or expectations for RICS members and firms. They contain mandatory requirements ‘must’ follow and best practice surveyors ‘should’ follow.

Practice Information sets out supporting guidance to advise surveyors in delivering certain services or working in specific areas of practice. Guidance is not mandatory.

Question 10

Please explain your understanding of the guidelines around the RICS logo?

Answer 10

Rules and Conduct of firms to use the logo and Guidelines for personal use of the RICs logo.
Qualified members have the right to use the logo for personal use (eg. business cards)
Specific rules on how it is shown (eg. not adjusted size or colour)

Question 11

What is IPMS?

Answer 11

International Property Measurement Standards. IPMS All Buildings January 2023 supersedes all previous standards.

Question 12

Please explain your understanding of the recent IPMS updates.

Answer 12

Introduced in January 2023 and supersedes all previous standards.
-shorter and more concise
-unique definitions
-organised into 4 volumes

Question 13

What are the general requirements set out by RICS for PII?

Answer 13

-Policy must be made on an ‘each and every’ claim basis.
-Sets out minimum levels of indemnity.
-Sets out maximum levels of uninsured excess.
-Run off cover must be in place
-Should cover past and present employees, directors and partners.

Question 14

What is the RICS Levitt Report?

Answer 14

Commissioned by RICS following audit in 2018.

Question 15

What key challenges does the Global Economic Recession Present to your area of surveying?

Answer 15

Rising inflation rates - additional challenges on developers, viability of sites no longer stacks up.

Question 16

What affect has the conflict in Ukraine had on the UK Property and Construction industry?

Answer 16

Europe high dependency on Russian gas and oil has increased build costs.

Question 17

What affect has Brexit had on the UK Property and Construction industry?

Answer 17

Supply of labour become more restricted therefore labour costs increased.
Price of goods moving across border increased therefore cost increases and availability issues.

Question 18

Are you aware of any RICS guidance on Brexit?

Answer 18

Position statements on a sector-by-sector basis which encourages growth and diversity of the construction workforce.

Question 19

Are you aware of any RICS Guidance Notes on COVID-19?

Answer 19

RICS ‘Covid-19 Guide to Surveying Services’ - work safely including inspections.

Question 20

What impact has COVID-19 had on your area of surveying?

Answer 20

Build cost increases therefore financial viability of developments affected.

Question 21

What is COP?

Answer 21

Conference of the Parties - yearly to discuss progress and future initiatives to tackle climate change.