AI-generated surveying websites

RICS has recently become aware of a number of fraudulent, AI-generated websites promoting surveying services that claim an affiliation with RICS or RICS-regulated members.

Our enquiries indicate that these websites are not operated by RICS-regulated firms or members and have no formal connection with RICS. We have also identified websites displaying the names and profiles of individuals described as RICS members without their knowledge or authority. These websites appear to be a deliberate attempt to mislead the public and impersonate RICS members.

Before selecting a surveying service online

Do not assume that a firm or an individual is regulated by RICS simply because a website:

• displays the RICS logo
• refers to RICS qualifications or credentials
• claims to be affiliated with RICS and/or
• features individuals described as RICS members.
   

Always verify these claims independently before instructing a surveyor, making any payment or sharing any personal information.

How to check if a surveyor or firm is genuinely affiliated with RICS

Before instructing a surveyor claiming to be a RICS member, or a firm claiming to be regulated by RICS, consumers should always verify those claims using the official RICS directories:

• Find an RICS member
  
• Find an RICS-regulated firm
   

If a person or company does not appear on these official registers, they should not be regarded as being regulated by RICS.

If you are unsure

If you are in any doubt about a website, individual or firm claiming RICS affiliation, you should:

• Contact RICS directly for verification before proceeding ; you can do so either by phone or email:
  • Email: contactrics@rics.org
  • UK phone: +44 (0) 2476 868 555
• Avoid instructing a surveyor or surveying firm, entering into any contract for surveying services or otherwise committing to engage them until their regulated status has been confirmed by RICS directly.
   

Protecting consumers and maintaining trust

RICS takes the integrity of the profession and protection of the public seriously. We are actively reviewing reports of misleading use of RICS branding, credentials and references on websites offering surveying services and will take appropriate action where necessary and feasible.

Consumers are strongly advised to exercise caution and verify the credentials of any surveyor and/or firm who claim to be regulated by RICS before engaging them.