Artificial Intelligence is rapidly becoming part of our everyday professional lives. From data analysis and document drafting to predictive modelling and digital tools, AI is increasingly embedded in how organisations operate across the built environment sector.

Recognising this shift, the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) have introduced a new global professional standard titled “Responsible use of artificial intelligence in surveying practice.” The standard became mandatory for RICS members and regulated firms on 9 March 2026, establishing clear expectations around how AI can be used within surveying services.

This is the first global professional standard specifically addressing AI within the surveying profession and reflects how rapidly technology is influencing the built environment industry.

Why the standard was introduced

AI technologies are becoming increasingly integrated into surveying activities across construction, valuation, land, and infrastructure services. While these tools can bring efficiency and insight, they also introduce risks such as inaccurate outputs, data security concerns, algorithmic bias, and over-reliance on automated systems.

The RICS standard aims to ensure that AI is used ethically, transparently, and with appropriate professional oversight, maintaining the high standards expected of chartered professionals.

Importantly, the guidance reinforces a key principle: AI can support professional judgement, but it cannot replace it. Surveyors remain responsible for the outputs produced in their work, even when AI tools are used to assist.

What the standard requires

The new professional standard sets out expectations for both individual surveyors and RICS-regulated firms. These include:

• Maintaining a basic understanding of AI technologies, their limitations and risks
• Ensuring professional judgement and human oversight of AI-generated outputs
• Implementing appropriate governance, policies, and risk assessments for AI use
• Protecting client data and confidentiality when using AI tools
• Being transparent with clients about how AI may be used in delivering services
• Keeping records where AI materially affects surveying work

The aim is not to require surveyors to become AI specialists, but to ensure they understand how these tools may affect professional work and client outcomes.

AltMarkt’s commitment to responsible AI

At AltMarkt Services, maintaining professional standards and protecting our clients’ interests is fundamental to how we operate.

We are pleased to confirm that AltMarkt is compliant with the new RICS AI professional standard, which came into effect on 9 March 2026.

As part of this process, we have reviewed and implemented internal policies and governance measures to ensure any use of AI aligns with the requirements of RICS and supports responsible, transparent practice.

For our clients, this provides additional reassurance that:

• Professional judgement always remains central to our work
• Data and information are handled responsibly
• Technology is used carefully to support, not replace, professional expertise

Looking Ahead

AI will continue to develop rapidly across the construction and property sectors. Used responsibly, it has the potential to improve efficiency, enhance analysis, and support better decision-making across estates and infrastructure projects.

The new RICS standard ensures that as these technologies evolve, professional integrity, accountability, and client trust remain at the heart of surveying practice.

If you would like to read more about the RICS AI Professional Standard – please click the link below. (Please note this is an external link) 

 Artificial Intelligence in the natural and built environment sector

AltMarkt Services is a RICS-regulated Chartered Surveying consultancy based in Colchester, Essex, supporting schools, academy trusts and public sector estates across Essex, Suffolk, East Anglia and London. We remain committed to delivering clear, practical advice while maintaining the highest professional standards. If you would like to learn more about how we support schools, trusts and public sector estates, please get in touch.