AI in surveying: have your say and shape the future

RICS’ Responsible use of artificial intelligence (AI) consultation deadline is fast approaching on 29 April 2025. This is the 1st edition of a new professional global standard. An important moment for the profession to address potential challenges and shape how AI will be integrated into surveying work responsibly.

A first of its kind

AI is no longer a futuristic concept. It’s here and rapidly transforming how we work. AI is already supporting surveying practices through machine learning applications that are advancing the role of surveyors in several ways, enhancing efficiency and decision-making. Diverse input strengthens this draft standard, making it highly practical for responsible AI use for a range of RICS members and stakeholders.

Why your input matters: insights from industry leaders in their own words

“As AI becomes more common in decision-making, it’s important to be aware of the risks and opportunities from the beginning, particularly with AI agents: independent software and hardware systems that can perform tasks independently on behalf of a user or another system. Here’s why:

1. Many AI agents are experimental and should be used in controlled environments, at least initially. Governance will require new oversight as multiple AI agents are used to perform more complex activities and flexible activities – from procurement to communication tasks.

2. Data control and confidentiality must remain a priority as multi-agent systems process large datasets and require ongoing monitoring for compliance.

3. Application programming interfaces (APIs) gateways used to drive multi-agents to perform complex activities need to be secured.”

"Shaping AI’s future in our profession starts with us. Your voice in this consultation will set the responsible and ethical standard in surveying. By participating, members help ensure that the tools we use reflect the values we uphold; transparency, trust, and public benefit. This is our opportunity to lead with purpose and foresight as technology transforms our industry.

We do not yet fully understand the true capability of AI, so it is important to see this not simply as a conventional Professional Standard, but as a chance to define the parameters within which we will operate in the evolving realm of AI. It’s about laying a strong foundation, rooted in ethical and responsible practice; capable of supporting agile and adaptable iterations as the space matures."

“As a business owner and surveyor, I want to stress-test these standards to understand their real-world impact. It’s not just about setting guidelines, it’s about ensuring they work in practice. Engaging in this consultation helps us assess the practical implications for our businesses, our clients, and the wider profession. If we don’t take part, we risk AI shaping our industry without the necessary safeguards and clarity we need.”

“This is a once-in-a-generation moment. As AI rapidly transforms how we deliver, monitor, and manage the built and natural environment, it’s critical that RICS professionals help shape how these tools are used—ethically, responsibly, and with public interest at the core. Our voice matters. By taking part in this consultation, we ensure the global standard reflects the real-world challenges and opportunities we face, embedding trust, transparency, and accountability in how AI supports professional judgement.” 

“There can be absolutely no doubt today that AI will dramatically impact not only our work as surveyors but humanity as a whole. While we rightly often focus on the exciting opportunities this will open up, we must also consider how we will constrain and manage the use of AI to maintain the trust and rigorous standards for which our profession is known for. This is one of those really important issues in which surveyors at the frontlines need to have their voices heard so that the RICS can amplify and support where AI is a force for good and limit the downsides and risks.”

Don’t miss your chance to make an impact. Visit iConsult to review the draft standard and submit your feedback before 29 April 2025.

Ensure this professional standard meets the challenges of today—and tomorrow.