Is a building surveyor the same as a quantity surveyor?

Building surveyors and quantity surveyors are two distinct job roles. Building surveyors evaluate new and existing buildings for defects and problems. They also advise on matters such as party walls – making alterations to walls, ceilings and similar that are shared with another property. In contrast, quantity surveyors control and manage costs on a construction project. Depending on which stage of the construction project they work on, they will either estimate the costs of the building/structure’s design or monitor the project’s costs as it is being built.

How much do graduate surveyors earn?

Graduate surveyors typically earn an annual salary of between £20,000 and £30,000, depending on their employer and job location. The highest salaries are typically in London. Upon qualifying as a chartered surveyor (which takes a minimum of two years), your salary should increase significantly – some surveys suggest by between £5,000 and £10,000.

Can you become a surveyor with any degree?

To become a graduate surveyor, you will need to undertake a degree that has been accredited by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS). However, you can do an undergraduate degree in an unrelated subject and then ‘convert’ to surveying by completing an accredited postgraduate conversion course (typically a postgraduate diploma or a masters). Some employers will hire you with an unrelated subject and then sponsor you through the accredited conversion course while you work for them. Others expect you to be on your conversion course before you apply.