Building Surveying Journal: October-November 2018

On an almost daily basis you will come across some new reference to proptech, and concern is often expressed about how it will affect the role of the surveyor.

But as the profession is changing at an unprecedented pace, proptech is now more of a mainstream requirement than an optional extra. In this issue, Trident director and chair of the RICS Building Surveying Professional Board Group Anthony Walker explains why it is important to invest in proptech before you need to use it. Given the wide range of apps on the market, Craig MacDonald also rounds up those that are most useful for surveyors.

Meanwhile, Andy Ballantyne details research comparing fire safety requirements for several different models of open-plan flat layout, and James Burgoyne cautions that you should always check the terms of your professional indemnity insurance to be aware of possible pitfalls.

Elsewhere in this edition, Andrew Little reviews the progress of modern methods of construction, along with their potential and the barriers they face; Franky Wong looks at the range of the profession’s work in Hong Kong; and Vince Jubb reports on the Condition Data Collection, which is assessing the state of schools in England.

Beyond this issue, though, building surveying and building conservation will be joining building control among the topics to be covered by the new RICS Built Environment Journal. The title will still cover key issues in the profession as well as having a fresh, authoritative design to take it into the new year – and beyond.

I welcome your thoughts and ideas about the sector and the new-look journal, so do please get in touch with me.