Finding the right surveyor for your next development project can be a daunting task, especially if you don’t know exactly what you’re looking for. More than just taking measurements, surveying is a highly specialised field in precise data management. A surveyor should be able to help you reduce cost, time delays, mitigate risk and generally, use data to drive improvements throughout the life of your project.
Not all surveyors are equal. There are different areas of specialty, types of qualifications, applications. The right surveyor will depend on what your project needs are and the type of people you’re looking to work with
Whether you’re a property developer, asset manager, builder, civil contractor or designer, here are our top 9 things to consider when looking for the right surveyor for you.
Do their services fit your needs?
Check that the surveyor can deliver the types of solutions you need for your project. Many surveyors have an impressive list of tools and technology they use to get their work done. When it comes to knowing whether they can solve for your project though, you may need to dig a bit deeper.
Look for specific examples of how they have applied the tools and technology to projects similar to yours.
What are their qualifications?
Surveying is a highly specialised field requiring tertiary level qualifications. To be sure you’re getting a qualified expert, look for evidence that the surveyors in the organisation hold relevant degrees, certifications and industry memberships.
Do they have clear processes?
Evidence of thorough processes will give you assurance they have a logical approach to their role in a project. Look for examples in their services as well as details of past projects in their portfolio.
Also consider the level of collaboration you’re looking for in your project. A surveyor with project management experience is another indicator that they understand and operate by clear processes, and have a collaborative approach overall.
What experience do they have?
Starting with how many years they’ve been in operation, you’ll want to be assured they have enough years under their belt that give you confidence in their capability. Also check the experience across their organisation. Having a broad range of years in industry can mean you’re getting a mix of both surveying veterans who know the ropes, as well as fresh, younger professionals who bring creativity and the very latest knowledge to your project.
Finding out who else they’ve worked with will give you an understanding of whether they would be appropriate for your project. If you’re a property developer, look for evidence they have experience with the scale of project you’re looking to hire them for. If you’re a builder, can they demonstrate they understand the needs of a design and construct (D&C) project, based on past projects?
Have they got a good reputation?
Firstly, look for solid references and client testimonials. What do others have to say about working with them? Are they credible and valuable testimonials from well known and respected companies?
Secondly, consider their standing within the industry. Knowing they have respect from their peers (and even competitors) will give you a good indication of the calibre of professionals they are. Look for a presence within industry publications, memberships and institutes, as well as evidence of an active contribution to their field.
Do they hold the appropriate accreditations?
Surveyors need to adhere to the highest of quality, health and safety standards. These ensure the health and safety of all involved with the project, but also ensure low risk to the land register, cadastre, asset, etc.
The criteria for accreditation is based on demonstrated processes, evidence that audit and safety policies are in place, quality of past surveys submitted and so forth.
Are they creative and innovative thinkers?
Depending on the level of complexity of your project, innovative thinking might be an important, if not critical attribute. Knowing whether they can think dynamically about your specific challenges and deliver customised solutions for your project will set some surveyors apart from others.
Look for evidence of innovation and a culture of research and development and specific examples of how solutions have been customised for clients in the past.
Do they demonstrate a high standard of customer service?
Your satisfaction is of the utmost importance, so you’ll want to find evidence that your surveyor can deliver results, and maintain high levels of customer service. Again, looking to client testimonials and references will give you confidence here, but you could also ask for information about their customer service policies and procedures.
Do they seem like the right people to partner with?
Working with a surveyor can be a long term engagement, so you’ll want to make sure they’re the right cultural fit. No matter if you’re looking for a one-off job or multiple projects over time, you’ll need someone who really gets you, your industry and the challenges you face.
You’ll want someone who can deliver high quality outcomes while maintaining a people-first attitude.
Choosing the right surveyor can mean the difference between delivering a project on time and on budget – or not. Surveyors aren’t all the same. Those with relevant qualifications and accreditations; processes; a suite of impressive past projects with great testimonials; and the ability to think dynamically to deliver custom solutions will ultimately be the more prudent choice.
If you’re interested to see if Land Solution are the right surveyors for your next project, please contact us.
