A defect is often the most visible part of a building problem. However, what we can see is not necessarily the reason the problem has occurred. This is where Root Cause Analysis (RCA) becomes an important part of building pathology. RCA is a structured investigative approach used to identify the fundamental cause of a defect, failure or recurring problem, rather than simply treating its visible symptoms. For building surveyors and other property professionals, this means movi

The Landlord and Tenant Act 1954 has been at the heart of commercial landlord and tenant relationships in England and Wales for more than 70 years. For many surveyors, it is the legislation that underpins lease renewals, security of tenure, asset management and investment decisions. Having led a commercial property team in local government, I came to appreciate the practical significance of the Act very quickly. Rather than learning it from a textbook, I learned it through pr

Property measurement is one of the most fundamental skills of a surveyor. Whether undertaking a valuation, preparing sales particulars, carrying out a development appraisal or measuring accommodation for lease purposes, accurate and consistent measurement underpins professional advice. However, one area that often causes confusion—particularly amongst APC and AssocRICS candidates—is the difference between the RICS Code of Measuring Practice and the International Property Meas

The English Devolution and Community Empowerment Act 2026 represents one of the most significant legislative changes affecting the property industry in recent years. While much of the Act focuses on devolving powers from central government to local and regional authorities, it also introduces important reforms that will have a direct impact on commercial property, planning, and community assets. As an APC candidate, understanding these changes is essential, as they are likely

Understanding housing policy is essential for any surveying professional. From legislation, planning, and social housing reforms to modern regulatory frameworks, UK housing policy has evolved significantly over the last 100 years — shaping the way we practice today. At Surveyor Store Ltd, we’ve created a handy overview to help professionals and APC candidates understand this history and its implications for practice. Key Milestones in Housing Policy 1. Early 20th Century: Hea