RICS Chartered Surveyor
Expert Guidance for Insurance Claims & Property Owners
Help For Homeowners, Landlords & Business Owners
Turning Property Damage Chaos into Clarity
When property damage strikes, the path to recovery can feel like a maze. Insurance policies are dense with clauses, repair costs can spiral out of control, and emotions often run high. This is where a Chartered Surveyor becomes invaluable - acting not just as a technical expert, but as a clear, calm voice guiding you through the process.
Nationwide RICS Chartered Expertise You Can Rely On.
At Exactum, we work with property owners nationwide across the UK, delivering precise assessments and professional reports that insurers respect. Our recommended surveyors are RICS-accredited, meaning they meet the rigorous standards of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors. In practical terms, that means you benefit from accurate valuations, objective advice, and a robust foundation for your claim.
Your Essential Guide to Chartered Surveyors and Insurance Claims
Suppose you’ve never worked with a RICS Chartered Surveyor before. In that case, this guide will explain why their expertise is a powerful asset in protecting your property, safeguarding your rights, and maximising your insurance settlement.
Why a Chartered Surveyor is Vital in an Insurance Claim
When you face damage from fire, flood, subsidence, or storm, your priority is restoring your property and peace of mind. But insurance claims aren’t always straightforward - policy wording can be ambiguous, repair estimates can be contested, and insurers may seek their own valuations.
A Chartered Surveyor brings authority, accuracy, and independence to the table. With deep technical knowledge and the credibility of RICS membership, they:
- Provide evidence-based valuations that are difficult for insurers to dispute.
- Deliver clear, accessible reports - no jargon, just facts and recommendations.
- Act as a buffer between you and contractors or insurers, ensuring your interests come first.
- Support your case with meticulous documentation, making your claim more likely to succeed.
The difference between an unqualified opinion and a RICS-regulated assessment can be the difference between a smooth claim and months of costly disputes.
RICS Chartered Surveyor vs General Surveyor – Key Differences
Not all surveyors are created equal. While anyone can call themselves a “surveyor,” the title RICS Chartered Surveyor is earned - not assumed.
To qualify, RICS Chartered Surveyors must complete an accredited degree or apprenticeship, undertake structured professional training, and pass the Assessment of Professional Competence (APC). They’re then bound by a strict code of ethics and required to complete ongoing professional development each year.
This means that when you hire a Chartered Surveyor:
- You get consistency – Standardised methodologies produce detailed, recognised reports.
- You get accountability – RICS members are answerable to a governing body with disciplinary measures.
- You get specialist insight – Whether in building surveying, valuations, or insurance reinstatement, advice is tailored to your needs.
- You get trust – The RICS designation is widely respected by insurers, solicitors, and contractors.
At Exactum, we only work with RICS-accredited professionals because in insurance claims, precision and credibility are non-negotiable.
People Also Ask – Chartered Surveyor FAQs
What is a Chartered Surveyor?
A chartered surveyor is a qualified property professional regulated by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS). They assess, value, and report on land, property, and construction, working to strict ethical and technical standards.
What’s the difference between a RICS Surveyor and a Surveyor?
A RICS surveyor is fully trained, independently regulated, and bound by a professional code. A non-chartered surveyor may still be competent, but they are not subject to the same strict requirements or oversight.
What qualifications does a Chartered Surveyor need?
They must complete a RICS-accredited degree or training programme, gain practical experience, and pass the RICS Assessment of Professional Competence (APC) before being awarded chartered status.
When should I hire one?
As soon as damage is identified, before engaging contractors or making detailed arrangements with your insurer. Early involvement can save you time, stress, and money.
Can a Chartered Surveyor help with disputes over insurance payouts?
Yes. They can provide independent reports, valuations, and expert witness testimony to help resolve disputes with insurers or contractors, often strengthening your position in negotiations.
Chartered Surveying Services for Property Owners and Insurance Cases
A Chartered Surveyor isn’t just there to tick boxes - they actively protect your financial interests. For property owners making or defending an insurance claim, they can provide:
- Homebuyer & Building Surveys
Detailed inspections to assess a property’s condition, highlighting defects, structural issues, and potential risks. - Insurance Reinstatement Cost Assessments
Accurate calculations of the cost to rebuild or repair your property - essential for correct insurance cover and fair claims settlements. - Damage Appraisals & Dilapidations Reports
Independent evaluations of damage from events like fire, flooding, or subsidence form strong evidence for your claim. - Valuation Reports
Market-value estimates accepted by insurers, lenders, and legal professionals. - Expert Witness Services
Providing authoritative testimony in disputes, mediation, or court proceedings.
How to Choose the Right RICS Surveyor for Your Claim
If you’re selecting a surveyor for an insurance claim, consider:
- Professional accreditation – Look for MRICS or FRICS after their name.
- Specialist expertise – Some focus heavily on residential insurance work, others on commercial or structural.
- Local knowledge – Understanding regional building styles, materials, and environmental risks improves accuracy.
- Communication style – The best surveyors explain technical findings in a way you can understand and use.
- Transparent fees – Ask for clear costs upfront to avoid surprises.
Why Choose Exactum Chartered Surveyors?
Exactum combines the technical excellence of RICS Chartered Surveyors with a client-first approach:
- Nationwide coverage – We serve clients across England, Scotland and Wales.
- We speak plainly - you’ll understand every part of your report.
- We coordinate with insurers and contractors to minimise delays.
- We’re transparent with costs and timelines from day one.
Whether you need an urgent reinstatement cost assessment or a detailed building survey, we’ll ensure you’re fully informed and in control - wherever you are in the UK.
Contact a RICS Chartered Surveyor Today
If you’re facing property damage - whether it’s from fire, flood, subsidence, storm, or accidental impact - acting quickly can make a huge difference to the outcome of your insurance claim. The sooner a RICS Chartered Surveyor is involved, the sooner you have accurate evidence, clear advice, and a strong position in negotiations with your insurer.
Our nationwide network of experienced surveyors means we can be on-site quickly, anywhere in the UK. We’ll assess the damage, provide a detailed RICS-compliant report, and, if needed, liaise directly with your insurer or loss adjuster. You’ll have expert support in your corner, every step of the way.
Contact Exactum today to arrange a complimentary initial consultation with our preferred RICS Chartered Surveyor and take the first step towards a fair and stress-free resolution.
Call 0800 028 0695 today.
