Five Hot Topics for Surveyors in Autumn 2025

Posted by London Build 2025 on 22nd September 2025 -

As autumn approaches, major shifts in RICS guidance and policy are coming into effect — and they’ll be a key talking point at this year’s London Build Expo. Writing for PBC Today, chartered surveyor Jen Lemen BSc (Hons) FRICS highlights five essential updates across planning, building, and construction that industry professionals should have on their radar as they prepare for the UK’s biggest built environment event.

1. RICS Professional Standard Service Charges in Commercial Property (2nd Edition)
Taking effect on 31 December 2025, this new edition aims to raise standards of transparency, consistency, and dispute resolution in commercial property management. With commercial space and mixed-use developments central to many conversations at London Build Expo, these changes will be vital for property managers, occupiers, and developers alike.

2. Revised RICS Property Measurement Guidance
The withdrawal of RICS Property Measurement (2nd Edition) leaves surveyors leaning on IPMS All Buildings or the Code of Measuring Practice until a new edition is finalised. This evolving area of guidance will no doubt feature in technical discussions at London Build, especially with measurement underpinning so many aspects of design, valuation, and compliance.

3. Digital Markets, Competition and Consumers Act 2024 (Commencement No. 2) Regulations 2025
From April 2025, stricter compliance requirements came into force for traders, including estate and letting agents. With consumer protection and digitalisation shaping the future of the industry, this legislation will be another hot topic at London Build Expo, where digital markets and regulatory change intersect with innovation.

4. Building Safety Act 2022 – Limitation Periods
Extended liability periods under the Building Safety Act 2022 raise new challenges around contracts, documentation, and risk. At London Build Expo, these issues will be central to conversations on safety, accountability, and the long-term future of UK construction.

5. Proposed New RICS Home Survey Standard
With consultation on the 2nd Edition closing in October 2025, residential surveyors will be preparing for significant changes in consumer reporting and trust. At London Build Expo, where housing, retrofits, and sustainability are key themes, the Home Survey Standard will form part of the wider dialogue on adapting to a changing housing market.

In short, the upcoming London Build Expo is set to be the stage where these RICS updates and wider industry changes are explored in detail. From service charges to safety, digital compliance to home surveys, professionals attending will gain the insights they need to stay ahead of the curve.

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Source: London Build, PBC Today