Last updated: 03/September/2026
What is Surveyor Desktop Research?
Desktop research is what a surveyor finds out about a property before the visit. RICS requires it: members must "undertake appropriate pre-inspection research" and "must be familiar with the type of property to be inspected and the area in which it is situated". That means checking flood risk, radon, ground conditions, mining and landfill history, listed status and conservation areas, and planned infrastructure — so the surveyor turns up knowing what to look for, rather than starting from scratch at the front door. Source: RICS, Home Survey Standard, 1st edition, November 2019 (effective 1 March 2021), sections 3 and 3.1; the research topics are listed in Appendix C.
We offer an AI-assisted desktop research and reporting tool for UK residential surveyors. It consolidates official data sources around a property and helps you produce a structured, editable report for pre-inspection research and Level 1, 2 or Level 3 surveys.
Does the AI write my report for me?
No. AI can draft suggested wording to save you time, but you review and edit every section. The final report and professional responsibility always remain with you.
What is bundled with the subscription?
Every plan includes a monthly allowance of Desktop Research reports plus featured listings on Surveyor.Directory, our directory that house buyers use to find and contact surveyors. You also get a free website if you wish.
How are the featured listings used?
Your subscription includes featured listings on Surveyor.Directory for the towns you cover, placing you at the top of local results and linking back to your own website.
How do I sign up?
Create your account by registering here and choose a plan.