Competency Questions

Question 1

Are there any building regulations relevant to inclusive environments?

Answer 1

Building Regulations Part M

Question 2

Can you provide some information about Part M in the building regs?

Answer 2

• Provides information about the ease of access both to and within a building
• Including things like pitch and dimensions of ramps, accessable height and width of stairs and corridors
• Access requiremnts to toilets, bathrooms and sinks

Question 3

What is the key regulation that legally protects people from discrimination in the workplace and in the wider scoiety?

Answer 3

Equality Act 2010

Question 4

What is the Equality Act 2010?

Answer 4

A discrimination law that protects all individuals from unfair treatment. It provides a legal framework to protect individuals rights and advance equality of opportunity

Question 5

What are protected characteristics under the Equality Act 2010?

Answer 5

Disability
Age
Martial status
Pregnancy and maternity
Race
Religion
Gender reassingment
Sexual orientation
Sex

DAMP RRGSS

Question 6

Which building regulations apply to sustainability?

Answer 6

Approved Document Part L - Conservation of Fuel and Power

Question 7

Can you provide an example of a sustainable technology and how it works?

Answer 7

Air Source Heat Pump
An air source heat pump works by absorbing heat from the air and transferring it to the heating and hot water system by using a refrigeration system similar to that of a fridge but in reverse

Photovoltaic (PV) Panels
PV’s convert sunlight into electricity. Light energy strikes cells and then electrons are knocked loose from atoms to create a current which is feed through an invertor to be used in battery storage or immediately to power the building

Question 8

What is a bribe?

Answer 8

A bribe is any financial or other advantage offered, promised, or given to a person to induce or reward them to perform a relevant function or activity improperly.

Question 9

What is the Loss and expense procedure in a JCT?

Answer 9

Notification The contractor must notify the employer as soon as it becomes clear that the project’s progress will be affected.

Initial assessment The employer must determine the contractor’s initial assessment within 28 days of receiving it.

Subsequent assessments The employer must update any subsequent assessment within 14 days of receiving it.

Information updates The contractor must update their assessment and information at monthly intervals until all necessary information has been provided.

Question 10

What’s the difference between an asset and a liability?

Answer 10

Assets are the items your company owns that can provide future economic benefit. Liabilities are what you owe other parties.

Question 11

What checks would you do if a client asked you to hold their money?

Answer 11

• Ensure funds are transfered immediatly to seperate client account
• Ensure the funds have a corresponding breakdown and schedule of funds for what they relate to.
• Due dilligence (Checks etc.)

Question 12

If a client goes away and wants you to hold their funds for payments what would you do?

Answer 12

• Ensure the sums to be paid related only to the the project in question.
• Ensure that the funds were immediately paid into a separate client bank account (Discreet or general), clearly named.
• A Principal oversees the client money accounting functions.
• Accounting systems and data must be secure.
• Clients must always have access to funds immediately.
• The account must not be overdrawn.
• Confirm the bank operating conditions in writing with the bank

Question 13

What’s the difference between Binding and Non Binding alternative dispute resolution procedures?

Answer 13

‘Non-binding’ refers to resolution processes that do not end with a result or a decision that binds (forces), the parties to accept it.

Question 14

What is GDPR and what is my role as a QS?

Answer 14

The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) is a European law that governs how personal data is processed and transferred within the EU.

GDPR outlines the specific rights that ensure individuals are in control of their personal data, can request a copy of their data at any time, and can ask for it to be deleted.

Question 15

What is Part M of the Building Regulations 2010?

Answer 15

Regulation pertaining to access and usability of buildings for people of all abilities, including those with disabilities.

Question 16

What is IPMS?

Answer 16

International Property Measuring Standards

Question 17

RICS Structure - What are some of the levels of governance in RICS?

Answer 17

Governing Council
RICS Board
Standards and Regulations Board

Question 18

How does the BSA affect you as a QS?

Answer 18

• Surveyors working on high-risk buildings must demonstrate a higher level of competence.
• The new Building Safety Regulator (BSR) will oversee surveyors and firms. The BSR is the Health and Safety Executive (HSE).
• Building surveys are likely to look very different, especially for high-rise buildings.
• Compliance applies throughout the entire lifecycle of the building, including design, construction, completion, occupation, and demolition.

Question 19

What must RICS firms / members do to protect against money laundering?

Answer 19

Under the RICS Professional Standard for Countering Bribery and Corruption, Money Laundering and Terrorist Financing,

• Must check potential clients are under any relevant sanctions
• Check if they are from a high risk country
• Do not accept cashpayments

Question 20

What is the status of RICS Surveying Safely?

Answer 20

It’s a standard

Question 21

Who are the parties under CDM?

Answer 21

CDM client.
Principal designer (PD)
Principal contractor (PC)
CDM designer(s)
CDM contractor(s)

Question 22

What is the reporting structure in Regency Grove with regards to H&S?

Answer 22

Each individual is responsible for upholding standards.
The principal or directors are then responsible for ensuring these standards are being upheld.

Question 23

What’s the difference between a hazard and a risk?

Answer 23

Hazard - A potential source of harm to people, property, or the environment.

Risk - The likelihood and severity of harm that could result from exposure to a hazard.

Question 24

What bits of legislation cover inclusive environments?

Answer 24

Equality Act 2010
Building Regulations - Part M

Question 25

Are you aware of any new guidance published by RICS on Diversity and inclusion?

Answer 25

Diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) guidance note. Outlines principles and best practices for fostering an inclusive environment. - It covers definitions of DEI, - Current challenges - Strategies for implementation - Metrics for measuring progress - Legal considerations, aiming to help organizations create a more equitable workplace.

Question 26

What is the what is the difference between net zero and carbon neutral?

Answer 26

Net Zero means balancing all greenhouse gas emissions with removals, while Carbon Neutral specifically focuses on balancing carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions. Net zero includes all greenhouse gases, whereas carbon neutral is limited to CO2.

Question 27

What bit of legislation covers data management in the UK?

Answer 27

UK General Data Protection Regulation (UK GDPR) Data Protection Act 2018

Question 28

How does RG comply with GDPR?

Answer 28

- Understand Requirements: Familiarize staff with requirements - Train Staff: Educate employees on data protection. - Obtain Consent: Ensure clear consent for data use. - Implement Policies: Develop data handling and retention policies. - Maintain Records: Keep records of data processing activities. - Report Breaches: Establish breach reporting procedures. - Enable Rights: Allow individuals to exercise their data rights. - Enhance Security: Implement measures to protect personal data. - Data Mapping: Inventory personal data collected and processed.

Question 29

What is the right to be forgotten?

Answer 29

Is the right of individuals to request that personal data be erased. It's a right that applies in certain circumstances, such as when: - The data is no longer needed for its original purpose - The individual withdraws consent - The individual objects to the processing of their data - The data was collected from a child - The data was unlawfully processed - The data must be erased to comply with a legal obligation

Question 30

What are the common forms of dispute?

Answer 30

Payment disputes Project delays Contractual disputes Quality issues Changes to the project scope Loss and expense claims Liability issues

Question 31

What is an expert witness?

Answer 31

Professional who provides impartial, unbiased opinions on matters within their area of expertise to assist a court or tribunal in reaching a decision.

Question 32

Who can become an RICS expert witness?

Answer 32

Professionals who have complete the RICS Expert Witness Certificate Demonstrate at least 10 years of experience in their primary profession Pass the RICS President's Panel assessment process, which includes an interview and ethics exam Meet the other requirements of the RICS Accredited Expert Witness criteria

Question 33

What is the role of an auditor?

Answer 33

Examining Financial Statements for accuracy. Assessing Internal Controls for risk management. Providing Assurance on financial reporting. Identifying Errors and Fraud. Reporting Findings and recommendations. Ensuring Compliance with laws. Advising Management on improvements

Question 34

What is a Responsible Principal?

Answer 34

A Responsible Principal will have primary responsibility for ensuring that RICS' professional, technical and ethical standards are applied, upheld and supported by an appropriate assurance framework within a regulated firm.

Question 35

What do RICS members need to do on a rolling basis?

Answer 35

All members must maintain a relevant and current understanding of our professional and ethical standards during a rolling three-year period. Any learning undertaken in order to meet this requirement may count as formal CPD.

Question 36

What are the timescales of dealing with a complaint under RICS regulation guidance?

Answer 36

1. Acknowledge the complaint as soon as possible, typically 7 days. 2. Notify PI insurer 3. 3. Provide a response within 28 days of receiving the complaints 4. 14 days for further developments

Question 37

How can RICS firms handling client's money pay themselves?

Answer 37

RICS-regulated firms can pay themselves from client money accounts by sending an invoice to the client and then transferring the money out of the client account. The firm must: 1. Ensure the client has given written authorization to deduct the fees without prior notification 2. Send the invoice or other written notification of the costs incurred to the client before withdrawing money 3. Transfer the monies out of the client account promptly

Question 38

Why do firms hold PI insurance?

Answer 38

Professional indemnity insurance protects you against claims for loss or damage made by clients or third parties as a result of the impact of negligent services you provided or negligent advice you offered.

Question 39

Are you aware of any guidance for buying PII?

Answer 39

RICS Professional indemnity insurance requirements

Question 40

What is run off cover?

Answer 40

**Purpose**: Protects against financial loss from claims that may arise from past professional services **Requirements**: RICS members must have run-off cover for a minimum of six years **Coverage**: Must be claims-made and fully retroactive, covering all historic work **Limits**: For commercial claims, firms must have adequate and appropriate cover. For consumer claims, firms must have a minimum of £1 million aggregate limit. **Cancellation**: Run-off cover cannot be cancelled for non-payment of premium

Question 41

What interesting article have you read on modus recently?

Answer 41

Energy Challenges for Landlords: Rising energy costs and complex billing systems in multi-tenanted commercial properties led to the creation of Unify Energy, offering a managed service for landlords. Unify’s Solution: Unify Energy provides accurate sub-metering and direct billing to tenants, helping landlords save money and reduce administrative burdens. Sustainability Focus: Unify supports landlords in meeting sustainability targets with renewable energy sourcing and energy data management, helping reduce carbon footprints.

Question 42

How is the RICS governing council elected?

Answer 42

Members of RICS (i.e., those with full Chartered status) are eligible to vote and stand for election to the Governing Council. Nominations for election are submitted by members of RICS or via a nomination process overseen by the Nominations Committee. The election is conducted via an online voting system where RICS members can vote for their preferred candidates. Ballots are typically held annually for vacant seats, and the process is overseen by an independent electoral body to ensure fairness.

Question 43

How does CLT work?

Answer 43

It is an engineered wood product made by stacking layers of solid wood boards at right angles to each other and bonding them with strong adhesives.

Question 44

Who is responsible for producing PCI?

Answer 44

Under CDM, the client is responsible.

Question 45

What's the difference between arbitration and adjudication?

Answer 45

**Speed** - Adjudication is a quick process, with an adjudicator required to make a decision within 28 days. Arbitration can take up to 45 days, but may be longer or shorter depending on the circumstances. **Complexity** - Adjudication is typically used for straightforward disputes, while arbitration is better suited for more complex disputes. **Binding** - Adjudication decisions are temporarily binding, while arbitration awards are binding and enforceable in court. **Confidentiality** - Adjudicator decisions are rarely made public, and the parties can enter into a confidentiality agreement. Arbitration may become public if there is an appeal. **Process** - Adjudication involves a quick resolution, often based on a written record of both sides' arguments. Arbitration involves a more detailed process, including a hearing of evidence and witnesses.

Question 46

What was agreed at COP 28?

Answer 46

* Loss and Damage Fund: Established to support vulnerable nations affected by climate disasters. * Climate Finance: Developed countries reaffirmed $100bn/year commitment, but still insufficient. * Net Zero Goals: Countries reiterated 2050 net zero commitments, but progress is slow. * Global Stocktake: Emissions are not on track to meet the 1.5°C target, more urgent action needed. * Fossil Fuel Phase-Out: Debate continues on how quickly to transition, with energy security concerns. * Carbon Markets: Focus on carbon trading and scaling up green technologies (renewables, clean hydrogen).

Question 47

Is adjudication optional in a contract?

Answer 47

No, adjudication is not optional in a construction contract if the contract meets the criteria of the Construction Act. The Construction Act overrides any provisions that would exclude adjudication.