Recent publications

Citation

(2010), "Recent publications", Structural Survey, Vol. 28 No. 3. https://doi.org/10.1108/ss.2010.11028cae.001

Recent publications

Article Type: Recent publications From: Structural Survey, Volume 28, Issue 3

Historic building conservation

New RICS guidance for those Chartered Surveyors involved with the conservation of heritage buildings is available. The first edition of a new Practice Standard Guidance Note has been issued. It is free to members to download at: www.rics.org/site/download_feed.aspx?fileID=4571&fileExtension=PD

Residential building defects

This book written by Geoffrey Hunt provides simple principles for the day-to-day management and assessment of residential buildings and their defects. Organising defects by era, the book covers what building materials and methods were used originally, what the common defects are and how they could be remedied. A practical, no-nonsense, easily digestible guide, this book is suitable for all building surveyors dealing with residential properties, whether a graduate, sole practitioner or those working as part of a larger organisation. It is published by RICS Books (ISBN: 9781842195086) in paperback and priced at £49.95.

Construction insurance

To ensure that professionals have a full understanding of the classes of risk that are available when undertaking a construction project RICS has published comprehensive guidance on the levels of insurance required. The first edition of a new Practice Standard Guidance Note has been issued. It is free to members to download at: www.rics.org/site/download_feed.aspx?fileID=3703&fileExtension=PDF

Amended expert witness practice statement

The 50th amendment to the Civil Procedure Rules (CPR) was recently introduced and amended rules came into force on 1 October 2009 (unless otherwise provided in SI 2009 No. 2092). Changes were introduced in a number of areas. Of particular relevance to expert witnesses are changes to Part 35, Practice Direction 35 and the Protocol for the Instruction of Experts to give Evidence in Civil Claims. Some of the changes are stylistic, others more substantive. RICS has produced a combined briefing and addendum (to Surveyors acting as expert witnesses) document. The briefing section sets out some of the recent changes to the expert witness provisions of the CPR, and the addendum features amendments that should be read into the published 3rd edition Surveyors acting as expert witnesses (RICS practice statement and guidance note).

Building Law Encyclopaedia

Building Law Encyclopaedia is a concise and authoritative reference, providing information in reasonable depth on an extensive number of legal terms, principles, phrases and issues that are commonly encountered in the construction industry. Most standard contracts are referred to, including the current suite of JCT Contracts, SBC, IC, ICD, MW, MWD, as well as ACA, PPC 2000, GC/Works/1 and NEC. In addition, some contracts which are theoretically out of date, but which are still in common use, are also covered. With over 1,050 entries and numerous cross references, it will be a useful reference for architects, quantity surveyors, project managers and contractors. With detailed reference to appropriate case law and legislation, construction lawyers will also find it of considerable value in the course of their work. Witten by David Chappell, Michael Dunn and Michael Cowlin and published by Wiley-Blackwell (ISBN: 978-1-4051-8724-4) the book is in hardcover and priced at £85.00.

Keep learning: a framework for building surveyors

RICS has published a guide to the process of training as a building surveyor towards chartered membership and beyond. The knowledge and skills of the building surveyor are diverse, demanding and transferable. RICS is keen to see its skills base develop and it is important that the right education and training framework exists for everyone involved. The guide has been written by Ewan Craig and is available on the RICS web site.

Commercial Energy Assessor’s Handbook

Following the success of the Domestic Energy Assessor’s Handbook, the Commercial Energy Assessor’s Handbook is packed with practical explanations and insightful advice for the new role of the CEA. Focusing on the knowledge, understanding and competence required for the National Occupational Standards (“NOS”) levels 3 and 4 non-domestic energy assessors, their role in this new profession and the processes involved in delivering the service, Commercial Energy Assessor’s Handbook takes a unique approach to this critical area. Step-by-step guidance is fully illustrated with photographs, graphics and short case studies to help put into context the skills required of a CEA. Published by RICS Books (ISBN: 9781842195345) the book is written by Russen, Neale and Rees. The paperback is priced at £45.00.

RICS White Book: the first facilities management practice standards

With the launch of its White Book RICS (Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors) has broken new ground in setting standards in facilities management, a field that has the potential to lead the way in creating more sustainable, efficient and cost effective workplaces. The White Book will act as a definitive practice guide for all RICS members advising clients on best practice facilities management processes. RICS members can view the guide on-line or non-members can purchase from RICS Books.

Hiring Builders and Professionals

This new book from consumer champion Which offers advice on finding a suitable contractor, what you need to know legally before you employ them, how to get the best out of the project and avoid problems, and, if the worst should happen, how to complain. This practical, accessible guide gives you everything you need to know to put your mind at rest to avoid the sharks and the conmen, and make hiring a stress-free and productive experience. Hiring Builders and Professionals covers a whole range of tradesmen, such as builders, plumbers, electricians, tree surgeons and roofers, as well as the professionals involved.

Watts Pocket Handbook 2010

The 2010 version is the 26th edition of this guide to property and construction, as used by professionals since 1983. It enjoys a unique position in the property market. Written by practising experts for professionals and students, this 26th edition is filled to the brim with comprehensive and up-to-date technical and legal guidance on all aspects of property and construction. Published by RICS Books (ISBN: 9781842195512) and priced at £26.95.