The Residential Property Surveyors Association (RPSA) is a representative body for independent specialist residential surveyors who are the industry's leading specialists in reporting on the condition of residential properties on behalf of home buyers. The RPSA is dedicated to helping its members deliver a range of high quality survey products, helping consumers in England and Wales at the time they are making one of the biggest investments of their lives.

Recommended by the Government in their new How to Buy Guide published by the Ministry of Housing, Communities & Local Government in May 2019.

The Home Condition Survey (HCS) is a survey that is suitable for all property types as it includes a full inspection and a comprehensive report.

A Building Survey (often referred to as a Full or Structural Survey) is the highest level of non-invasive survey that surveyors usually carry out during the home-buying process. It is suitable for all properties but is often most applicable for older or more unusual properties, or properties where problems are suspected.

New Certified Surveyor Scheme

From 10th January 2020, surveyors will be able to become part of the RPSA Certified Surveyor scheme.

In a first for the residential surveying industry, the scheme sets demanding standards for survey inspections, reports, redress and conduct, delivering a powerful message of confidence to the consumer. Set to become the recognised standard for independent residential surveyors, the RPSA Certified Surveyor scheme gives members a clear mark of differentiation from the inconsistent product quality seen in the market for many years.

Surveyors will need to:

• Carry out full and thorough inspections for EVERY survey
• Provide reports that meet defined standards for content, photographs, pre-survey desk study, conveyancer and environmental information
• Sign up to The Property Ombudsman redress scheme
• Meet the highest conduct standards as defined in the scheme Code of Practice.

RPSA is committed to delivering the highly consistent and professional level of surveys that all residential surveyors would aspire to. By proudly displaying the Certified Surveyor scheme logo participating surveyors will be offering a clear guarantee of end-to-end quality, not delivered by any other scheme or organisation in the industry. There has never been a better time to raise the standard for independent residential surveying, and the RPSA Certified Surveyor scheme is set to become the consumer choice for quality. To register your interest, please contact us either by email - info@rpsa.org.uk or 0800 0933 502