Between 2009-21, RICS, through its Black Book suite of guidance notes, released 32 separate titles covering different elements of quantity surveying practice. For the first time, RICS is going to release a combined Professional Standard incorporating global principles of Quantity Surveying and Project Management practice - the subject of this consultation, alongside six Practice Information pieces covering the life cycle of construction projects.

The Professional Standard to be consulted upon has been authored by industry expert Matt Thompson and supported by an Expert Group of RICS members and others from across the world. Matt is a widely respected and long-standing technical author in this and related fields and has most recently authored the RIBA Handbook of Practice Management, 10th edition.

Amit Patel, RICS head of professional practice (construction), said: “For the first time, RICS is launching a Professional Standard on construction which incorporates updates that would normally be drip-fed over a ten-year period. We believe that this new model will enable professionals to update and improve their practice more swiftly and enable a more consistent framework for standards.

“I implore all construction professionals across the globe, whether RICS members or otherwise, to get involved and respond to this important consultation. RICS is committed to serving and improving the global built and natural environment profession, and it is our members and colleagues in connected fields that guide our professional statements, standards, and guidance.”

The public consultation is intended to go ‘live’ and occupy a period of six weeks from 16 September, until it closes on 24 October 2025. The consultation may be found at this link.

RICS plans to launch the final version of the Professional Standard in Q1 2026 once all responses to the consultation have been analysed and incorporated where appropriate.