The RICS is updating its Professional Standard for Surveyors Acting as Expert Witnesses. The updated RICS professional standard sets out the requirements for members who provide expert evidence in civil proceedings before a wide range of tribunals. It addresses key aspects of delivering such services, including terms of engagement, managing conflicts of interest, fee arrangements, and the preparation of written reports. The standard also clarifies the distinction between the expert witness role and other roles a surveyor may undertake during proceedings. The current 4th Edition, which was published in April 2014 and amended in February 2023, is applicable to the UK, while the 5^th Edition is of global application.

The 5th Edition is scheduled for publication in late 2025/early 2026 with a short transition period for members and stakeholders to implement changes before it becomes effective. The RICS is seeking feedback from public stakeholders on the 5th Edition by 7 October 2025. You can provide feedback by answering the questionnaire and providing comments on the draft standard and the draft supplementary information. If you would like to provide input into the EWI response to the RICS, please email policy@ewi.org.uk by 30 September 2025. 

Following the completion of the consultation:

1. The Expert Working Group and RICS will review all consultation feedback.

2. Updates as approved by the Expert Working Group and RICS will be made to the standard.

3. The standard will be published along with a public basis for conclusions.

4. The publication of the standard will be widely and appropriately communicated to the range of industry stakeholders.