Four tiers of AI governance: which one is your firm actually on?
Summary
The article outlines a four-tier model for AI governance in conveyancing and related property workflows, ranging from unmanaged personal use of consumer tools to fully governed AI embedded within firm systems. It argues that many firms are operating at a lower level of control than they assume, and that the most practical near-term step is moving to firm-managed accounts and then closing the gap on one high-volume workflow.
Why it matters
Residential property surveyors increasingly encounter AI-enabled processes in conveyancing, data handling and client communication, so understanding governance levels helps assess risk and supplier claims. The article is also relevant to firms handling client data, because it highlights the difference between visibility, enforceability and actual output quality.
Key points
- Most firms are likely using AI less formally than they believe, often through personal accounts and copy-paste.
- A managed business AI environment improves control through firm-owned accounts, central settings and better retention management.
- The strongest governance comes from controlled data access and AI embedded in case or transaction systems.
- Policies alone are weaker than technical controls, especially for ad hoc use and the long tail of tasks.
- Governance does not guarantee accuracy; output quality still needs separate checking.
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