Why did you decide to become a Surveyor?
It was a natural progression from my job working on the tools for Preservation Treatments.
Can you describe your typical working day?
I leave my house between 4:30am – 6:30am and either go to the office to write reports or to my first appointment, usually in London. I carry out between 3-5 appointments which can be made up of surveys, site meetings, visits to the Technicians/Plasterers or, in some circumstances, callbacks. I then aim to leave London at lunchtime to head home and answer e-mails and make phone calls. I usually finish about 4:00pm, although it can be later if reports have to be written that day!
Do you have an area of special interest within your role as Surveyor?
Yes, I specialise in Waterproofing and Listed Buildings, working regularly with Historic England and Conservation Officers.
What is your favourite part of your job?
Visiting buildings and problem solving. I also enjoy the exam moderating I am carrying out for the PCA (Property Care Association).
Can you name the 3 key attributes which you think make a successful Surveyor?
I think the main things that make me successful are the following: 1) Knowledge – both of buildings and products. 2) Relationships – with customers and the workforce. 3) Attitude – ensuring that I have the right attitude on site and in my work in general.
What’s the most useless talent you have?
I have many – but the most useless is that I can juggle with clubs – not very well, but I can do it!
Life is not all work. What do you like to do in your spare time?
Anyone who knows me knows that I love football – watching, playing and even talking about it!
