As May draws to a close, the RPSA is taking stock of some key developments across the property sector, especially those with practical implications for residential surveyors. From EPC overhauls to planning reforms and shifting homeowner behaviour, there's plenty to be aware of. This isn’t intended as an exhaustive summary, but a curated selection to inform and spark conversation.
One of the most significant changes on the horizon is the upcoming revision to the calculation method for Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs). The new version of the Reduced Data Standard Assessment Procedure (RdSAP) is scheduled to take effect in mid-June. This will mean that assessors will need to gather more detailed and robust evidence. Consider verified heating system data, specific types of glazing, and the presence of smart controls.
While this move aims to improve the accuracy of EPCs, especially for flats and terraced houses, it also raises the bar for documentation. Surveyors will likely find themselves increasingly advising clients on the crucial importance of maintaining thorough records of any upgrades or installations. If a heating system's efficiency can't be verified with solid evidence, the property's EPC score may be negatively affected.
We'll be publishing a dedicated blog post soon with practical guidance on how you can support your clients through these changes. The key takeaway for now is that detailed paper trails are becoming more critical than ever, and surveyors play a vital role in helping clients prepare.
Another notable trend is the increasing number of homeowners who are choosing to improve their existing properties rather than move. Reports suggest that over half of those who considered relocating in the past year have decided to stay put, often due to high transaction costs and limited housing options. A significant portion of these homeowners are instead investing in renovations or extensions.
This trend has clear implications for surveyors. Clients are increasingly seeking your expertise on feasibility, layout changes, and the condition of older buildings before undertaking improvement projects. As a result, demand for detailed building surveys, damp assessments, and planning input is increasing, particularly when dealing with older or extended properties.
This reinforces that surveying goes far beyond sales and purchases; it's also crucial in helping homeowners make informed decisions about investing in their current homes.
There's been some uncertainty recently surrounding the definition of "material information" in property marketing. New consumer protection legislation has led to the withdrawal of previous guidance from Trading Standards, and estate agents are now seeking clarification on their obligations when listing properties for sale or rent.
This is an area for surveyors to watch closely. While we're not directly responsible for marketing content, our reports often reveal issues that could be considered material. It's essential to be aware of how agents and solicitors respond to our findings, particularly when clients request clarification on disclosure or the omission of specific information.
In the absence of clear guidance, surveyors can continue to provide value by ensuring that our reports are clear, factual, and well-supported by evidence. This will empower our clients to make informed decisions, regardless of the evolving legal context.
We've also seen announcements regarding planning reforms aimed at supporting small and medium-sized housebuilders. These include streamlining the planning process for developments of under 50 units and reducing some of the financial burdens they face. The government has also pledged additional funding for SME builders and is piloting initiatives to unlock smaller sites.
If these reforms are successful, they could stimulate demand for smaller-scale developments. This, in turn, could create more opportunities for surveyors to provide services such as site assessments, measured surveys, and early-stage feasibility reporting. Smaller builders often rely heavily on local expertise and clear, pragmatic advice, making the surveyor's role even more critical.
However, it's worth noting that some industry voices have expressed caution. While the reforms are generally welcomed, concerns have been raised about implementation timelines and the capacity of local authorities to handle the changes effectively.
Finally, some interesting data on coastal property values has been released this month. While average prices in seaside locations have experienced a slight dip in the past year, they remain significantly higher than they were five years ago. The most desirable coastal areas still command a premium, while parts of Scotland remain among the most affordable.
This trend is important not just from a pricing perspective, but also because it ties into the broader issue of resilience. Coastal properties are increasingly vulnerable to climate-related risks such as flooding, erosion, and extreme weather events. Surveyors working in these areas will likely face more questions about these long-term factors.
This is closely linked to our recent blog post on climate change and the surveying profession, where we explore the practical and ethical considerations of assessing property in a changing environment. As surveyors, we have a responsibility to understand and address these challenges.
If you've come across any other noteworthy articles or have your own thoughts to share, please do get in touch! This is just the beginning of what
we hope will be an ongoing conversation. While we may not publish a round-up every week, we're committed to keeping you informed and connected.
Email George the RPSA News Hound with any stories, News or Blogs.
