Building Control Surveyor

Building control surveyors are responsible for ensuring that building regulations are followed on building sites and construction projects. The building regulations cover things like public health, fire safety, acoustics, accessibility and energy conservation.

Building control surveyors can be involved in anything from a small house extension right up to a major construction project in the town centre. They may also survey damaged or unstable buildings to decide whether they can be repaired or need to be demolished. If a developer does not follow the building regulations, they have the power to prosecute them.

Building control surveyors work closely with a wide range of people including, architects, builders, engineers and members of the public. Most building control surveyors work for the local authority. It is also possible to work as an approved surveyor for a private sector company, for a construction industry regulatory body, or for a private consultancy.

Starting salaries range from around £22,000 to £27,000 per year. With experience, this can rise to between £30,000 and £40,000 per year. Senior surveyors can earn up to £60,000 per year.

You will need 5 GCSEs at grade 9-4 (A*-C), or equivalent, including English, maths and science for a Level 3 course and up to 3 A Level’s, or equivalent for a degree.

Most employers prefer applicants to have a foundation degree, HND or degree in a construction-related subject, for example building surveying, building control, civil engineering or structural engineering. The course will need to be accredited by either The Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors or the Chartered Association of Building Engineers.

You could complete a college course, which could help when you are applying for trainee jobs in building control. Courses include Level 3 Certificate in Construction and the Built Environment, T Level in Design, Surveying and Planning or Level 4 Diploma in Building Control Surveying.

Some degree apprenticeships are available, and you might also find the occasional entry-level position that requires A Levels, or equivalent.

To find local education and training opportunities that could lead to a career as a building control surveyor, visit our partner website >log on | move on>.

Details of relevant degree courses can be found on the UCAS website.

Local Authority Building Control

Go Construct - Building Control Surveyor

Prospects - Building Control Surveyor

National Careers Service - Building Control Surveyor