Ewa Scott, Lambert Smith Hampton

Ewa Scott is a valuation surveyor at Lambert Smith Hampton. She entered the property profession as a mature student, studying for an MA in property valuation and law at Cass Business School.

How did you go about changing careers and joining the property profession?

I didn’t even think about surveying until I was 32. I worked in interior design at an architectural firm, where a big development in Notting Hill introduced me to property management and law. I soon realised that surveying was for me. I took a conversion course and found my position while still studying. After two interviews, I was offered a place with my current company. I enjoyed my seat in valuation during my training and returned to this when I qualified as a chartered surveyor.

What does the job of a valuation surveyor involve?

My role is to survey properties to decide their value – my clients are often financial institutions considering loaning money to purchasers. Turnaround is often tight because property deals are time sensitive and I usually work on three projects simultaneously. I split my time between site visits, office-based research and report-writing. Site work is intensive. I measure the property, dictate notes on and photograph each building, documenting everything that could affect their value from their location to the type of construction. It’s a challenge to be observant while carrying pads of paper, a measuring device, a dictaphone and digital camera!

Much of my work is in Greater London and I enjoy exploring the city. I also like that each project has a definite beginning and end.

What's the difference between being a graduate valuation surveyor and being a qualified valuation surveyor?

As a graduate trainee I had my own small caseload and was supported by my supervisor. Now, I do a lot more individual work, although I can still ask my colleagues’ advice and have building surveyors examine my photographs to pinpoint any building defects.