Building Surveyor Interview Questions UK: 8 Real Questions and What Interviewers Want

Most Building Surveyor interviews in the UK follow a pattern, and knowing it beats guessing. Below are eight questions from our bank of 25, each with a note on what the interviewer is really after.

Eight Building Surveyor interview questions, and what the interviewer is thinking

1. What is the difference between a RICS Level 2 and Level 3 Home Survey, and how do you decide which to recommend?

Why they ask: This is one of the most common practical questions for a residential building surveyor.

2. How would you diagnose damp in an older property?

Why they ask: Damp is the most common defect surveyors face, and misdiagnosis is a major source of complaints.

3. How do you carry out a condition survey of a commercial or residential building and structure your report?

Why they ask: They want to see a methodical approach to surveying and reporting.

4. How does the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 work, and what is a building surveyor's role?

Why they ask: Party wall work is core for many building surveyors in private practice.

5. What Building Regulations Approved Documents are most relevant to your work, and how do you check compliance?

Why they ask: They test regulatory knowledge, which is central to the role.

6. During a pre-purchase survey, you suspect significant structural movement but the seller's agent insists everything is fine. What do you do?

Why they ask: They test your independence and professional judgement.

7. Tell me about a time you diagnosed a complex building defect and how you explained it to the client.

Why they ask: They want evidence of technical diagnosis and communication.

8. What does a typical week as a building surveyor involve?

Why they ask: They want to see you understand the variety of the role.

A sample answer to question 1

What is the difference between a RICS Level 2 and Level 3 Home Survey, and how do you decide which to recommend?

A Level 2 survey, formerly called a HomeBuyer Report, suits conventional properties in reasonable condition. It gives a condition rating for each element and highlights defects and risks, with advice on repairs, but it is not a full technical analysis. A Level 3 survey, the Building Survey, is a thorough inspection and a detailed report on construction and defects, with explanation of causes and repair options. I would recommend a Level 3 for older, listed or unusual properties, those built with non-standard materials, properties that have been significantly altered, or where the client plans major works. A client with limited information on a conventional house built after 1900 in sound condition would usually be fine with a Level 2. I always explain the limits of the inspection and scope in the terms of engagement, as the RICS Home Survey Standard requires.

Common mistake to avoid: Recommending the cheaper one by default; Not explaining limits

Want the rest?

Full model answers, key points and common mistakes for all 25 questions are on the Building Surveyor interview questions page. The first five are free, no sign-up needed.