AI at work, by profession
The RICS standard on the responsible use of AI in surveying, explained
Mandatory for every RICS member and regulated firm since 9 March 2026. What it asks for, in the order a firm meets it.
Checked against the published sources on 2 October 2026.
The short answer
The standard is a mandatory conduct standard, effective from 9 March 2026, for RICS members and regulated firms in every jurisdiction. It applies to AI outputs that have a material impact on the delivery of a surveying service. Firms need a written AI register, responsible use policies, a risk register reviewed at least quarterly and supplier due diligence. Surveyors must record a written decision on the reliability of an output and tell clients in writing, in advance.
- In effect
- 9 March 2026
- Status
- Mandatory professional standard
- Risk register
- Reviewed at least quarterly
- Clients
- Told in writing and in advance
When it applies
It applies to outputs capable of influencing the service: a summary of documents relied on in a report, an output composing a significant part of an opinion, a recommendation on where to investigate a fault. Where a member or firm decides the impact is material, that decision and its reasoning must be recorded.
What a firm must have
A written assessment of whether AI is the most appropriate tool. A written register of each system, its purpose, the date first used and the next review date. Responsible use policies covering roles, training at least annually and how human judgement is applied. A risk register covering bias, erroneous outputs, gaps in what is known about the system and what happens to data put into it.
Private and confidential data must not be uploaded to an AI system without express written consent in advance and reasonable steps to confirm the risk is acceptable.
What a surveyor must do
Apply professional judgement, including scepticism, and document a decision on reliability: assumptions, concerns and their reasons, what could lessen them, and whether the output can reasonably be used. The decision is prepared by or under a named, qualified surveyor who accepts responsibility. For automated or high volume outputs, randomised dip samples at regular intervals.
- Written reliability decision
- A named surveyor responsible
- Dip samples for high volumes
- Written information to the client on request
This page explains what the rule says. It is not legal, regulatory, clinical or financial advice on your own position. Rules change, so read the sources listed beside it, and tell us at hello@wajd.co.uk if something here is out of date.
Learn it properly, free
This guide is the summary. The course teaches it in full, with a video conversation, worked scenarios and a knowledge check after each module. Every module is free to read with no account. A certificate, if you want one once you pass, is £9.
AI at work, by industry · 1.5 CPD hours
AI in surveying, property and construction: the RICS standard in practice
Questions people ask
Is the RICS AI standard mandatory?
Yes. It has applied to all RICS members and regulated firms since 9 March 2026.
How often must the AI risk register be reviewed?
At least quarterly, by the staff responsible for decisions about the firm's use of AI.
Do clients have to be told AI is being used?
Yes, in writing and in advance, where the AI has a material impact on the service. The terms of engagement must cover it.
Can I upload a client's documents to an AI tool?
Only with express written consent in advance from those affected, and after the firm has satisfied itself the upload does not pose an unacceptable risk.