Land surveyors are regulated through membership of the Royal institute of Chartered Surveyors (RICS). In order to become a properly certified land surveyor, and to obtain insurance against damages resulting from professional work surveyors must become members of the institute. To become a member of which, land surveyor firms must meet the requirements of RICS’ Rules of Conduct.

These define the professional, ethical and business standards which are expected of RICS Members and Firms. The document is available to down load here. RICS Regulation is the part of the institute which monitors, guides and assists members and firms to comply with the rules, regulations and ethical standards. It reviews and investigates complaints received about Members and/or regulated Firms and, where appropriate, takes disciplinary action in cases where Members and/or regulated firms fall short of the standards expected of them.

Complaints can be made to the RICS against individuals or firms if they have broken any of the institutes rules. Complaints are considered by a senior member of the RICS and if they cannot be resolved may result in a disciplinary hearing. These hearings can lead to fixed fines or if they particularly severe, they can lead to suspension or expulsion from the institute. The RICS also has a section devoted to the development of companies ensuring that the highest level of service is maintained by its members.