There are lots of regulations a building must conform to as it's constructed, from public access to health and safety and energy conservation. It's the building control surveyor's job to check plans in the office and inspect the buildings themselves, to ensure that none of these regulations are overlooked.
If you're considering a career as a building control surveyor, then you'll already be self motivated and well organised. You'll learn all about health and safety issues and construction laws, and as you'll be dealing with a wide range of people, good communication skills are a must.
The entry requirements to train as a building control surveyor vary depending on the course taken, but most ask for a degree. The requirements to get on to a degree course also vary, so it is essential to research first. Some employers may alternatively ask for a BTEC in Civil Engineering or Building Studies.
Entrants into the profession combine on-the-job training with day release to college to gain a BTEC, HND/C or Diploma in Building Studies. This training takes between 3 to 5 years, and is often then followed by exams set by the Institute of Building Control or the Association of Building Engineers, which could take a further 3 years of part-time study.
After all written exams are completed, practical competence is then assessed.
Qualified building control officers can expect to earn between £16,000 and £20,000. As always, salaries in London are higher. For further information on salaries refer to professional institutions and industry press.
