Are you trying to trace a family member who was a chartered surveyor, auctioneer or land agent?

If so, RICS Library could help you. 

Central to the RICS Library collection are the membership lists and journals which go back to the foundation of the Surveying Institution in 1868. We also hold material from other organisations who have merged with RICS, such as the Chartered Auctioneers and Estates Agents Institute, the Land Agents Society (merged in the 1970s), and the Incorporated Society of Valuers and Auctioneers (merged in 2000).

The journals contain obituaries and death notices which provide a brief history of an individual’s private and professional life.

Our resources include books which record the history of the surveying profession including references to individual surveyors and firms.

There is also a small collection of photographs.

It is advisable to contact the library in advance of your visit to arrange access to the material you are interested in viewing. 

You can visit the RICS Library in person or use our service for remote visitors.

Non-members can purchase day passes from the library enquiry desk - £15 (£10 concessionary rate).

If you are unable to visit the library in person, a member of our team of  information officers will research available sources for you. 

A small charge of £20 is made for this service.

Please email, fax or post completed Family History form to  RICS Library.